India is a land of vibrant and diverse festivals, each with its unique charm and significance. Among these, Teej is a festival celebrated twice a year, once in the month of Shravan and again in Bhadrapad. Teez is not just a celebration but a testament to the enduring bonds of love, fidelity, and togetherness that define Indian culture.
Teej in Shravan (Hariyali Teej)
This festival falls on the third day of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Shravan, which usually falls in July or August.
History and Origin of Hariyali Teej
Teez in Shravan, also known as Hariyali Teej or Sawan Teej, is celebrated during the monsoon season, usually in July or August. Its origins can be traced back to Hindu mythology, where it is believed to commemorate the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to legend, Goddess Parvati observed strict fasting and prayers on this day to win the heart of Lord Shiva, and her dedication eventually led to their marriage.
Significance of Hariyali Teej
This festival holds immense significance for married women who fast from sunrise to moonrise, praying for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. The fast is rigorous, with women abstaining from food and water throughout the day. They dress in vibrant green attire and adorn themselves with intricate mehndi (henna) designs. In the evening, they break their fast after sighting the moon, often with a community gathering, and exchange gifts.
Customs and Celebrations for Hariyali Teej
The way of celebration of Hariyali Teez and customs may vary from region to region. However, we will learn about the custom and celebration which is common in most of the regions.
Hariyali Teej or Teej of Shravan is mainly celebrated in Delhi, Haryana, Western Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Punjab.
Worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati
Married women worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati on this day, seeking blessings for a strong and harmonious marital life.
Fasting and Prayer
Married women observe rigorous fasts, demonstrating their devotion and love for their husbands. They pray for their husbands’ long and healthy lives.
Adornments
Women dress in vibrant green attire, symbolizing growth and fertility, and apply intricate mehndi designs on their hands.
Moon Sighting
The fast is broken after sighting the moon in the evening, and women often participate in community gatherings.
Gift Exchange
Family members exchange gifts as tokens of love and affection.
Teej in Bhadrapad or Bhado/Bhadav (Hartalika Teej)
This Teej is celebrated on the third day of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, which typically falls in August or September.
Teez in Bhadrapad (Bhado) is primarily celebrated in the northern and eastern regions of India, with a strong presence in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. In addition, the festival is also observed by Nepali communities in these regions and in Nepal itself.
History and Origin of Teej in Bhadrapad
The Teez festival celebrated in the month of Bhadrapad, usually in August or September, has its own historical and mythological roots. This day is dedicated to the veneration of nature and the harvest season. It is believed that Teez in Bhadrapad marks the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of autumn.
Significance of Hartalika Teej
Teez in Bhadrapad is a time when farmers express their gratitude to the deities for a bountiful harvest. Women play a central role in this celebration, offering prayers for the prosperity of their families. The festival often involves communal feasts, singing, and dancing. Married women also observe fasts on this day, much like in Shravan Teez, but the focus here is on the overall well-being of the family.
Customs and Celebrations for Bhadrapad Teej
Hartalika Teez is primarily celebrated by married women, who observe fasts and participate in various rituals to seek the well-being of their husbands and families. However, in some regions, unmarried girls also participate in the festival to seek blessings for a prosperous future and to strengthen family bonds.
Worship of Deities
In Bhadrapad Teez (Hartalika teez), people worship various deities associated with agriculture and nature, seeking blessings for a prosperous harvest.
Fasting and Prayer
Married women observe rigorous fasts, similar to Shravan Teez, praying for the well-being of their families and the success of their husbands.
Harvest Celebrations
Communities come together to celebrate the harvest season with feasts, music, and dance.
Rituals
Rituals may vary by region, but they often include offering prayers to local deities and thanking them for a successful harvest.
Teej Katha (Legend)
The Teez Katha, or the legend of Teez, revolves around the devotion and unwavering love of Goddess Parvati for Lord Shiva. It is believed that Goddess Parvati observed a strict fast and performed rigorous penance to win Lord Shiva’s heart. Her dedication and unwavering commitment eventually led to their divine union and marriage. To commemorate this legendary love story, married women observe fasts on Teez, seeking the same level of love, fidelity, and harmony in their own marriages.
Conclusion
Teej, celebrated in both Shravan and Bhadrapad, exemplifies the deep-rooted traditions, devotion, and unity in Indian culture. It’s a festival that celebrates not only the bonds of marriage but also the connection between humans and nature. As families come together, women fast and pray, and communities celebrate, Teez becomes a symbol of love, fidelity, and togetherness that transcends time and generations. It is a reminder of the rich cultural tapestry that India proudly weaves and cherishes.
Also Read:Â Jitiya Festival: Unveiling the Three-Day Celebration of Maternal Love
FAQs
Q. When is Hartalika Teej 2023? (When is Hartalika Teej 2023)
Ans. This year Tritiya Tithi will start at 11:08 AM on 17th September 2023 and end at 12:39 AM on 18th September 2023. That’s why in 2023, Hartalika Teej will be celebrated on 18 September 2023 after sunrise on Tritiya Tithi of Shukla Paksha of Bhadrapada. If we talk about the auspicious time of worship, then the most auspicious time is from 06:07 AM to 08:34 AM.
