Why Tulsi Is Offered to Hanuman — this belief has been followed for centuries, and devotees still consider it one of the most potent ways to receive Lord Hanuman’s blessings. Tulsi holds a sacred place in Hindu tradition, and offering it to Hanuman is said to fulfil wishes and remove obstacles. But what is the real reason behind this practice? The answer lies in an ancient story from the Ramayana.
The Mythological Story Behind Offering Tulsi to Hanuman
According to the Ramayana, a significant incident took place after Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana returned to Ayodhya following their exile. One day, Goddess Sita prepared a variety of dishes and served them to Lord Hanuman. As Hanuman began eating, his appetite seemed endless. No matter how much food was served, his hunger did not subside, leaving Sita worried.
Seeing her concern, she approached Lord Rama for a solution.
Lord Rama’s Suggestion That Changed Everything
Lord Rama advised Sita to place a single Tulsi leaf in Hanuman’s meal. Following his suggestion, Sita added Tulsi to the food. The moment Hanuman ate it, his hunger was instantly satisfied.
From that day forward, the tradition began — offering Tulsi to Hanuman is believed to bring divine blessings, fulfil desires, and calm all forms of distress. The presence of Tulsi symbolises devotion, purity, and sacred connection.
Another Reason Tulsi Is Dear to Hanuman
Hindu belief states that Tulsi is highly sacred to Lord Vishnu. Since Hanuman is known as the greatest devotee of Lord Rama — the seventh incarnation of Vishnu — offering Tulsi to him becomes even more significant. Devotees believe that presenting Tulsi leaves or a Tulsi garland pleases Hanuman immensely, as it symbolises love and devotion toward Lord Rama.
How to Offer Tulsi to Hanuman the Right Way?
There is a traditional method described in scriptures for offering Tulsi to Hanuman. Devotees who follow it with sincerity are believed to receive special blessings.
Begin by collecting 108 Tulsi leaves and writing “Ram” on each leaf using sandalwood paste. After preparing the sacred garland, offer it during Hanuman’s worship. This act is said to bring prosperity, protection, and fulfilment of wishes.
You can also write “Ram” on 1, 11, 21, or 51 Tulsi leaves and offer them at Hanuman’s feet. It is believed that sincere devotion during this ritual attracts Hanuman’s grace and removes all obstacles from life.