In temples, a garland made solely of Tulasi leaves is offered to god before other ornaments and offerings. Also, in any rituals performed, Tulasi leaf is dropped in the Kalasha (pot) containing water and such water is said to be holy or pure.

Another religious significance of Tulasi is its dearness to Lord Vishnu. Every year, Tulasi is married ceremonially to Lord Vishnu (Tulasi Vivah) in the month of Kartika on the 11th bright moon day (lunar calendar). It is celebrated as a 5-day festival in Hindu culture and concludes on the full moon day, which marks the start of the wedding season as per Hindu rituals.

Having Tulasi at home is considered very auspicious and it has to be taken care. The term means ‘the incomparable one’ in Sanskrit. There are two forms of Tulasi, the dark or ‘Shyama’ Tulasi or the light or ‘Rama’ Tulasi.

It is also said that Tulasi was a great devotee of Lord Krishna, just like Mirabai. Tulasi is also named as the Goddess of Vrindavan in some traditions.