Pt Sri Pranesh Achar (Ananda Rangan)
General
The scriptures state that to be eligible to perform auspicious rituals, a person should wear both Urdhva Puṇḍra (the vertical mark on the forehead) and a Tulasi mala. It is said in the śāstras that one who wears a mala made of Tulasi wood is blessed daily with great spiritual merit. Therefore, wearing a Tulasi mala is considered necessary for performing auspicious religious activities.
Since the Tulasi mala is meant for sacred purposes, it should be treated with respect. It should not be worn while sleeping, or while passing stool or urine. Hence, the mala should be removed and kept aside during these times.
