Teej is a significant Hindu festival celebrated primarily by women in regions of India and Nepal. It marks the monsoon season and celebrates the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The festival typically falls in the months of July or August, corresponding to the Hindu month of Shravan or Bhadrapada. So, depending on the specific calendar year and lunar cycle, today might indeed be Teej.
There are three main variations of Teej: Haryali Teej, Kajari Teej, and Hartalika Teej. Each signifies a different aspect of Parvati’s devotion to Shiva and carries unique rituals and traditions. Haryali Teej, celebrated during the bright half of the lunar month, commemorates their marriage and is characterized by vibrant green decorations symbolizing nature’s abundance during the monsoon. Women dress in new green clothes, adorn themselves with intricate henna designs, and swing on decorated swings. Fasting, prayers, and the sharing of traditional sweets are common practices.
Kajari Teej, observed during the dark half of the lunar month, falls about fifteen days after Haryali Teej. This occasion focuses on the reunion of Parvati with her parents after her marriage to Shiva. Women often gather to sing traditional songs and share stories related to the festival.
Hartalika Teej, occurring just before Ganesh Chaturthi, commemorates Parvati’s intense penance to win Shiva’s affection. It involves a strict fast, prayers, and the creation of sand idols depicting Shiva and Parvati. The rituals emphasize the importance of devotion, perseverance, and marital bliss. This Teej highlights the significance of a woman’s unwavering dedication and her central role in upholding cultural and religious traditions. Each of these variations of Teej reflects the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology and the cultural significance of the monsoon season in the Indian subcontinent. The festival serves as a reminder of the power of devotion, the importance of family bonds, and the celebration of womanhood.
