Hariyali Teej is a joyful festival celebrated mostly by Hindu women during the monsoon season. It marks the reunion of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and symbolizes love, dedication, and spiritual devotion. The word Hariyali means greenery, and Teej refers to the third day of the lunar fortnight. It usually falls in the month of Shravan (Sawan), when nature blooms with rain.
Why Is Hariyali Teej Celebrated?
According to Hindu beliefs, Goddess Parvati fasted and prayed for many lifetimes to marry Lord Shiva. After her 108th birth, Shiva finally accepted her as his wife. This day, therefore, celebrates the divine love and sacrifice of Parvati. Women fast to seek blessings for a happy married life and the well-being of their families.
How Do People Celebrate It?
Here’s how women celebrate this sacred festival:
- Fasting: Most women observe a Nirjala Vrat (fast without food or water) from sunrise until the evening puja. Some choose to have fruits or water only.
- Puja Rituals: In the evening, women worship Goddess Parvati with traditional items like haldi (turmeric), sindoor (vermilion), fruits, and flowers. The idol or image of Parvati is decorated with red or green clothes.
- Mehendi and Green Attire: Wearing green is considered lucky. Women apply mehendi (henna) and wear green bangles, symbolizing prosperity and new life.
- Swings and Songs: Swings decorated with flowers are hung from trees. Women sing Teej songs and enjoy swinging in gardens and courtyards.
- Home Visits: Married women often return to their maternal homes for this festival, where they receive sweets, clothes, and gifts from their parents.
Fasting Rituals (Vrat Vidhi)
Here are the main steps involved in Teej fasting:
- Morning bath: Wake up early and take a holy bath.
- Wear new clothes: Preferably green or red traditional attire.
- Take Sankalp (pledge): Promise to observe the fast with full devotion.
- Prepare offerings: Fruits, sweets, flowers, betel leaves, and sindoor.
- Perform Puja: Worship Parvati and Shiva with prayers and lamps.
- Listen to Teej Katha: Read or hear the Teej story during the puja.
- Break the fast after sunset, only after completing all rituals.
Sacred Mantras to Chant
These mantras bring peace and blessings when recited during puja:
- “ॐ गौरीशंकराय नमः”
- “ॐ पार्वत्यै नमः”
- “ॐ नमः शिवाय”
You can repeat them 11 or 108 times while offering flowers or lighting a diya (lamp).
Do’s and Don’ts of Hariyali Teej
Do’s:
- Follow vrat rules sincerely and with devotion.
- Wear clean, modest clothes, preferably green or red.
- Respect elders and family traditions.
- Visit a temple or conduct puja at home peacefully.
- Sing bhajans or Teej songs to create a positive atmosphere.
Don’ts:
- Avoid non-vegetarian food or alcohol before or after the vrat.
- Do not argue or speak harshly during the festival.
- Refrain from cutting hair or nails on this day.
- Avoid using black clothes, as it is considered unlucky.
Cultural Celebrations Across India
- In Jaipur and Udaipur, royal processions of Parvati’s idol are carried through the streets.
- In Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, women gather at temples or gardens for group prayers.
- In Madhya Pradesh, folk dances and Teej fairs make the celebration vibrant.
- In cities, many housing societies organize special programs like mehendi contests and folk-dance shows.
Modern Celebrations
Today, women mix tradition with convenience. Some use digital platforms to join live puja sessions, while others share their celebration photos on social media. Despite the changes, the spirit of the festival remains strong-celebrating nature, love, and family bonds.
Why This Festival Is Important
Hariyali Teej is more than a religious day. It teaches:
- Devotion through Parvati’s strong will.
- Sacrifice and faith in relationships.
- Love and blessings for a peaceful married life.
- Respect for nature, especially during the monsoon.
Conclusion: A Festival that Blooms with the Earth
Hariyali Teej is a festival that blends spirituality, beauty, and nature. It reminds us to stay rooted in culture, show love to family, and respect the environment. Whether you’re single, married, or living far from home, celebrating Teej connects you with your roots and fills the heart with hope and joy.
Also Read: “Monsoon Glow: Say Goodbye to Sticky Skin with These Easy Tips” – FM News
