Witness 'Tulsi lagna': Celebration of a divine union in Goa

DIVINE UNION

Yesterday the courtyards of Hindu households in Goa lit up in celebration of a divine union, the ceremonial wedding of the tulsi plant, locally referred to as Tulshiche lagna in Konkani.

HOLY WEDDING

In this age-old ritual, the bride, symbolised by the tulsi plant, and the groom, represented by an amla branch (symbolic of Lord Vishnu) are tied together as the priest recites Mangal ashtaka mantras.

JOY AND CELEBRATION

This auspicious ritual is performed just like any other Hindu wedding, with all the family members coming together to partake in a joyous celebration.

FESTIVE DECOR

Family members join hands in decorating the courtyard, especially the area surrounding the tulsi plant, with candles, lamps, flowers and rangoli.

SACRED OFFERINGS

Prasad, sacred offerings consisting of fruits, chirmulyo (puffed rice), and a mix of fauv (flattened/parched rice), coconut and sugarcane are presented to deities and then distributed among the people.

JOYOUS TRADITION

As part of a cherished tradition, married women, with their pooja thalis, go around the tulsi plant praying for holy blessings.

FESTIVE DELIGHTS

No celebration is complete without a scrumptious meal! Different dishes with fauv are prepared and served along with other vegetarian options.

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