Married Women Celebrate Hartalika Teej 2024
New Delhi, September 6, 2024: Today, married women across India observed the auspicious festival of Hartalika Teej. This one-day festival, also known as Teej or Hartalika Teej, is dedicated to Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. It is observed on the third day (Tritiya) of the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, which usually falls in August or September.
This year, Hartalika Teej falls on a Friday, and devotees observed a strict fast. Women wake up before sunrise, take a cleansing bath, and wear their most beautiful sarees and jewelry. They then decorate their homes with colorful rangolis and mango leaves.
The Significance of Hartalika Teej
Hartalika Teej holds immense significance for married women. It is believed that observing the fast and worshipping Lord Shiva and Parvati brings blessings for a long and happy married life, good health for their husbands, and well-being for their families. Unmarried women also observe the fast, praying for a good husband.
The festival also celebrates the strength and devotion of Goddess Parvati. According to mythology, Parvati underwent severe penance to win Lord Shiva’s hand in marriage. Her unwavering devotion and dedication are an inspiration for women observing the fast.
Observing the Hartalika Teej Fast
The Hartalika Teej fast is a rigorous one. Devotees abstain from all food and water for a full 24 hours. The day begins with a pre-dawn prayer (Sandhya Aarti). Women then spend the day singing devotional songs (bhajans) and listening to stories about Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva.
The Puja Rituals
In the evening, an elaborate puja (worship ceremony) is performed. A small clay house (called a “chaubara”) is decorated and placed on a platform. Idols of Lord Shiva and Parvati or a Shivling (representation of Lord Shiva) are placed inside the chaubara.
The puja thali (plate) is filled with offerings like fruits, sweets, flowers, and sindoor (vermillion powder). Women chant mantras (sacred hymns) and offer prayers to Lord Shiva and Parvati.
Breaking the Fast
The next morning, after sunrise, the fast is broken with a special meal called “prasad.” This prasad consists of fruits, dry fruits, and other vegetarian dishes prepared without grains. The women then share the prasad with their families and friends.
Celebrations and Social Gatherings
Hartalika Teej is also a time for social gatherings and celebrations. Women visit each other’s homes, exchange gifts, and share stories. In some regions, swings are set up, and women enjoy singing and dancing together.
Hartalika Teej in Different Regions of India
While the core rituals of Hartalika Teej remain the same across India, there are some regional variations in how the festival is celebrated.
- In North India: Women sing traditional Teej songs called “Teejri.” In some places, a symbolic marriage ceremony is performed between Lord Shiva and Parvati.
- In Maharashtra: The festival is called “Hartalika.” Women wear green bangles and green colored clothes. They also perform a special dance called “Ghavan.”
- In Rajasthan: The festival is known as “Teej.” Women wear colorful clothes and adorn themselves with intricate mehndi (henna) designs. They also enjoy swinging and singing folk songs.
Hartalika Teej: A Celebration of Tradition and Faith
Hartalika Teej is a vibrant and colorful festival that showcases the deep-rooted traditions and faith of Hindu women. It is a time for women to come together, celebrate their bond, and seek blessings for their families. The festival also serves as a reminder of the importance of devotion, dedication, and perseverance.