This ritual may be performed on any day from Kartik Shukla Dwadashi (Twelfth day of the bright fortnight of the month of Kartik) till Pournima (full moon of Kartik).
Worship
This ritual consists of uniting Shri Vishnu [an Idol of Balkrushna (Baby Shrikrushna)] and the Tulsi (Basil plant) in wedlock. In ancient times, the practice of child marriage was prevalent. On the eve of the wedding, the Tulsi-vrundavan (A small rectangular structure in which the tulsi is grown) is painted and decorated. Sugarcane and marigold flowers are placed in the Tulsi-vrundavan and tamarind and gooseberries are placed at the base of the plant. The wedding ceremony is performed in the evening.
Special features of Tulsi Vivah
All rituals undertaken in the four months of Chaturmas culminate with the Tulsi Vivah. All food items that are forbidden during the Chaturmas are offered first to a Brahman and then partaken.
