Hariyali Teej is a significant festival celebrated by married women in India, particularly in the North Indian states of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Jharkhand. This festival, which occurs two days ahead of Nag Panchami, falls on Shukla Paksha Tritiya in the month of Shravana. In 2024, Hariyali Teej will be celebrated on August 7, according to the Gregorian calendar.
Hariyali Teej History
Hariyali Teej commemorates the love and sacred union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to legend, Parvati underwent 107 births before she was able to marry Lord Shiva. In her 108th birth, she succeeded in marrying him on the Shukla Paksha Tritiya of Shravan.
During this time, Parvati severed all ties and lived chewing on dry leaves, while Lord Shiva, strictly following celibacy, remained unaware of her love. To gain his attention, Parvati undertook a perilous journey to the Himalayas and settled in a cave, where she devotedly worshipped Lord Shiva.
Parvati sculpted a Shiva Lingam out of sand as an act of her devotion. Pleased by her dedication, Lord Shiva appeared before her and granted her desire, declaring Goddess Parvati as his wife. Since then, it is believed that any woman who observes this fast with complete devotion will receive blessings from Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Hariyali Teej Significance
On Hariyali Teej, Hindu women fast without consuming water (Nirjala Vrat) and pray for the long and successful lives of their husbands. According to Hindu mythology, wearing all 16 ornaments can shield a woman’s spouse from all dangers, which is especially significant for newlyweds.
Hariyali Teej Puja Vidhi
- Preparation: The house is thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and decorated with flowers.
- Deity Adornment: The home is adorned with idols of Shiva Lingam, Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva, and Lord Ganesha.
- Puja Ceremony: The deities are worshipped in a sixteen-step ceremony, and the Puja continues all night.
- Fasting: Women observe a Nirjala Vrat, abstaining from food and water for the entire day.
- Married women fast for blessings of wealth, harmony, and longevity for their spouses and families.
- Unmarried women fast with the hope of finding a good spouse and a happy marriage.
- Breaking the Fast: After 24 hours, once all the rites of the Puja and Vrat are performed, women can consume water.
Hariyali Teej Shubh Muhurat
As per Drik Panchang, the Tritiya Tithi begins at 07:52 PM on August 6 and ends at 10:05 PM on August 7. This auspicious timing is crucial for performing the rituals and Puja associated with Hariyali Teej.
In summary, Hariyali Teej is a deeply revered festival that celebrates the eternal bond of love and devotion between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The rituals and fasting observed by women on this day reflect their dedication and prayer for the well-being and prosperity of their families.
