Haritalika Teej is a significant Hindu festival celebrated primarily by women in the Terai region of Nepal and some parts of India, particularly in the states of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. This festival falls on the third day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Bhadrapada (August-September) according to the Hindu lunar calendar. In 2023, Haritalika Teej is scheduled to be celebrated on 23rd August. This auspicious day holds great importance in Hindu culture, especially for married women who observe fasts and pray for the well-being and longevity of their husbands.

The Significance of Haritalika Teej:

Haritalika Teej is celebrated with much enthusiasm and devotion, signifying the divine union of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. The word “Haritalika” is derived from two words, “Harit” meaning abduction and “Aalika” meaning close female friend. The mythological story associated with this festival narrates the reunion of Goddess Parvati with Lord Shiva after she undertook severe penance aided by her close friend (Aalika) to win Shiva’s love and divine companionship. Thus, Haritalika Teej symbolizes the sacred bond of love and marriage.

Rituals and Customs:

1. Fasting (Vrat):

• On this day, married women observe a rigorous fast without consuming food or water to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati for the well-being and prosperity of their spouses.
• Unmarried girls also observe this fast to pray for a good and loving husband in the future.

2. Puja and Offering:

• Women wake up early, take a holy bath, and dress up in red or green traditional attire, often bridal clothing.
• They perform special prayers and rituals by offering flowers, fruits, sweets, and other traditional items to the deities.
• Sacred songs and hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are sung during the puja.

3. Swinging:

• Women and young girls enjoy swings adorned with flowers in open spaces.
• Swinging is considered auspicious and signifies the playful aspect of the divine relationship between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

4. Mehendi (Henna):

• Applying intricate mehendi patterns on hands and feet is an integral part of Haritalika Teej celebrations.
• Women adorn themselves with beautiful henna designs as a symbol of love and devotion.

5. Sindhara Tradition:

• Married women receive gifts and blessings from their parents and in-laws, known as “Sindhara.”
• These gifts typically include traditional clothing, jewelry, cosmetics, and sweets, symbolizing love and prosperity.

Muhurat and Auspicious Timings:

• The most auspicious time for Haritalika Teej puja is during the Tritiya Tithi, which is the third day of the lunar month.
• The ideal timing for performing the rituals falls during the morning hours, particularly in the Pratahkal period.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

1. What is the significance of fasting on Haritalika Teej?
– Fasting on Haritalika Teej is believed to bestow marital bliss, longevity, and prosperity upon married couples. It is a way for women to express their devotion and seek blessings for their husbands’ well-being.

2. Can unmarried girls observe the fast on Haritalika Teej?
– Yes, unmarried girls also fast on Haritalika Teej to pray for a suitable and loving life partner in the future. The fast is seen as a way to honor the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

3. Is there a specific dress code for Haritalika Teej celebrations?
– Women typically dress in red or green traditional attire, often resembling bridal wear, as a symbol of love and devotion. Wearing auspicious colors is believed to attract positive energy and blessings.

4. How is Haritalika Teej different from other Teej festivals?
– Haritalika Teej specifically commemorates the reunion of Goddess Parvati with Lord Shiva, emphasizing the theme of marital love and devotion. Other Teej festivals like Hartalika Teej in North India also celebrate similar themes but may have regional variations in customs and rituals.

5. What is the importance of applying mehendi (henna) on Haritalika Teej?
– Applying mehendi on hands and feet is considered auspicious and symbolizes beauty, love, and devotion. It is a traditional practice followed by women to enhance the festive spirit and express their reverence for the divine couple, Shiva and Parvati.