Hartalika Teej in Nepal

Hartalika Teej is a significant Hindu festival celebrated primarily by women in Nepal, as well as in some parts of India. The festival falls on the third day of the bright half of the lunar month of Bhadrapada, usually in late August or early September.

History and Significance

The day commemorates the legend of Goddess Parvati's devotion to Lord Shiva. According to mythology, Parvati performed a rigorous austerity (hartalika) to win over Shiva as her husband. Moved by her dedication, Shiva accepted her as his wife. Hartalika Teej symbolizes this union and is celebrated to honor marital bliss and the well-being of one's spouse.

Traditions

• Fasting: Women observe a strict fast known as 'Nirjala Vrat' where they do not consume food or water for 24 hours.
• Prayers and Rituals: Devotees visit Shiva temples to offer prayers. They perform rituals like 'puja' and recite hymns dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva.
• Sindhara: Married women receive gifts such as clothes, bangles, henna, and sweets from their maternal homes.
• Dressing Up: Women dress up in fine traditional red or green saris, adorn themselves with jewelry, apply henna on their hands, and wear bangles.

Festive Activities

• Cultural Performances: Song and dance are integral parts of Teej celebrations. Women gather to sing traditional songs that reflect their lives and societal roles.
• Social Gatherings: Family get-togethers are common as it's a time for sharing festive meals after the fast is broken.

Hartalika Teej fosters social bonding among women while they engage in shared religious observances and festivities celebrating love and marriage.