Many religious-minded people throughout India and the rest of the world wear necklaces of Tulasi wood (tulasi kanthi mala). Tulasi wood is sacred to Lord Krishna and His followers. However, there are many popular taboos and misconceptions regarding who can and cannot wear tulasi.
Tulsi mala is a Hindu prayer necklace made from the dried stems of the tulsi plant, also known as holy basil.
The mala typically contains 108 beads, which is a sacred number in Hinduism and Buddhism.
Wearing a tulsi mala is believed to bring spiritual benefits, such as increased devotion, purity, and protection from negative energies.
It is commonly used for chanting mantras and prayers, especially for the worship of Lord Vishnu and his incarnations.
The tulsi plant is considered to be very auspicious and is often planted in Hindu households and temples.
Description
Who Can Wear Tulasi Neckbeads? The following authoritative quotes should put to rest all rumors, taboos and speculations regardingthis question. Bhagavan Sri Krishna Himself states that ANYONE CAN WEAR TULASI kanthi mala. There are no restrictions! The wearing of tulasi neckbeads, (tulasi kanthi mala) simply depends on one's personal sense of allegiance to his beliefs, duty, or simply as a matter of inspiration if he/she wants to do so. Srila Sanatana Goswamipada calls this a taste or attraction to wear them, (yatha ruchi) HBV: 4.308. In Vishnu Dharmottara, Bhagavan Sri Krishna says, “Without a doubt, ANYONE who wears tulasi neckbeads, even if he/she is unclean or of bad character, will surely attain Me.” (ashauco anacharo mam eva iti na samshaya) HBV: 4.322.