Puranic Stories · Other Puranas & Sacred Texts
Tulsi's rejected proposal led to a heated exchange of curses between herself and Shree Ganesh: words spoken in the sting of the moment that, resolved with compassion, explain to this day why Tulsi leaves are never offered in his worship.
Words Exchanged in Hurt
Wounded by his refusal, Tulsi cursed Shree Ganesh to be married against his own wishes, and Shree Ganesh, in turn, cursed her to a difficult union of her own, both speaking from genuine hurt rather than cruelty.
A Resolution Softened by Compassion
Seeing Tulsi's genuine remorse, Shree Ganesh softened his response, blessing her instead to become a sacred plant cherished throughout Hindu worship, beloved above all in the devotion offered to Lord Vishnu, with one lasting condition: her leaves would never again be offered in worship directed to him specifically.
What Devotees Seek
This is why devotees today offer Tulsi leaves generously in Vishnu and Krishna worship, while turning instead to Durva grass, modak, and the other offerings this collection describes when honoring Shree Ganesh, each plant finding its own rightful place within the wider range of devotion.