What are the rules and significance of Tulasi worship (Tulasi Seva)?तुलसी पूजा (तुलसी सेवा) के नियम और महत्व क्या हैं?

In every authentic Gaudiya Vaishnav temple and household, a central position is occupied by *Tulasi Devi* (the Holy Basil plant). Tulasi is not viewed merely as a botanical specimen with medicinal values; she is recognized as an eternal, pure devotee of the Lord who has assumed the form of a plant to bless the material world and assist in the pastimes of Krishna.

The significance of Tulasi worship (*Tulasi Seva*) is immense. Lord Krishna is exceptionally fond of Tulasi; the scriptures state that He will not accept any offering of food or flowers unless it is accompanied by a leaf from her plant. Her presence brings purity and spiritual protection to an entire household.

The practice of *Tulasi Seva* involves several precise rules: she must be watered daily with care, her soil must be kept clean, and her leaves must be plucked only during daylight hours with deep respect and specific prayers, ensuring no damage to the plant. Every morning, devotees perform *Tulasi Arati*, circumambulating her plant four times while singing her praises. Chanting the prescribed prayers before her grants the practitioner the spiritual strength to overcome material desires and accelerates the awakening of pure *Bhakti* in the heart.