5. Ganesha Pooja and Tulsi Leaves

Tulsi Leaves

 The worship of Lord Ganesha with twenty one different types of leaves (called Patras) finds a special mention. It is believed that when Ganesha us ritualistically offered these leaves, he is pleased and bestows wealth and prosperity.

Each leaf type is associated with a unique name of Ganesha. Also, each type of leaf is offered with recitation of unique Mantra associated with the name of the leaf. Hence, the twenty one Patra Puja is also known as Eka-Vinshati.

It is important to note that though Tulsi leaves are highly pious, they are never offered to Ganesha. According to Brahma Vaivarta Purana, the use of Tulasi leaves (basil leaves) is restricted in Ganesh Puja.
However, according to Narada Purana, Tulasi leaves can be offered to Surpakarna incarnation of Ganesha. Similarly, Vratraj Tulasi leaves can be offered to Gajavaktram incarnation of Lord Ganesha.