Can we keep a Śāligrāma at home, and what are the rules?

yes, many Vaiṣṇava homes do; it is worshipped as Viṣṇu himself, so families try to offer daily pūjā with tulasī.

A Śāligrāma is a naturally formed black stone, usually a fossil ammonite, found in the Gaṇḍakī river in Nepal. Vaiṣṇava tradition regards it as a self-manifest form of Viṣṇu that needs no prāṇa-pratiṣṭhā. Tradition also tells that Tulasī and Śāligrāma are eternally joined, which is why Tulasī-vivāha is celebrated with a Śāligrāma as the groom.

A Śāligrāma at home is usually given a daily bath (abhiṣeka) with water, a tulasī leaf, sandal paste, a lamp and a simple naivedya. Families generally avoid keeping it where daily worship is not possible, keep one or an odd number, and never sell it. If you travel, a family member or a temple can care for it.

Customs differ on details — for example, who may touch it, or whether it should be inherited rather than bought. Ask your family elders or a Vaiṣṇava teacher, and follow your lineage’s practice.

Found in the Gaṇḍakī river, Nepal · Source: Vaiṣṇava tradition

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