Hartalika Teej is a special festival for women, celebrated mostly in northern and western parts of India like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. It is observed on the third day of the bright half of the Bhadrapada month (August or September) in the Hindu calendar. This festival is very important for married and unmarried women who pray, fast, and celebrate with great devotion.
The Story of Hartalika Teej
The word “Hartalika” comes from two words: “Harat,” which means “to abduct,” and “Aalika,” which means “female friend.” The story is about Goddess Parvati, who wanted to marry Lord Shiva, but her father wanted her to marry Lord Vishnu. To marry Shiva, she decided to perform deep meditation and prayers for many years. When her friend heard about her father’s plan, she helped Parvati by taking her away to a forest where she could continue her prayers. Impressed by her devotion, Lord Shiva agreed to marry her. Since then, this day is celebrated as Hartalika Teej to honor Parvati’s love and dedication.
Why Hartalika Teej is Important
- Celebration of Marriage:
Married women celebrate this day to pray for the long life and happiness of their husbands. It is a day to show love and dedication in their marriage, just like Goddess Parvati showed for Lord Shiva.
- Fasting for Blessings:
Women keep a strict fast on this day, known as “Nirjala Vrat,” which means fasting without food or water. They believe this fasting brings blessings, happiness, and a good life. It is also considered a way to purify both the body and mind.
- Worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati:
Women worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati by offering flowers, fruits, and sweets. They decorate the idols of the deities and pray for a happy married life. They also sing devotional songs and tell the story of Hartalika.
- Bringing Women Together:
Hartalika Teej is a time for women to come together, celebrate, and bond. They apply henna, wear new clothes, and enjoy singing and dancing. It helps in building friendships and a sense of community.
- Hope for Unmarried Women:
Unmarried women also observe this fast, hoping to find a good life partner, just like Goddess Parvati found Lord Shiva. It is believed that worshipping Parvati on this day brings blessings for a happy married life.
Rituals of Hartalika Teej
- Morning Rituals:
Women start the day by taking a holy bath, wearing new clothes (often green), and decorating themselves with jewelry and bangles. Green is considered a lucky color and is believed to bring prosperity.
- Fasting and Prayer:
The fasting starts early in the morning and continues until the next day. Women set up a small shrine in their homes with idols or pictures of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, perform prayers, and offer fruits, flowers, and sweets.
- Evening Celebrations:
In the evening, women come together to sing traditional songs, dance, and share sweets and gifts, celebrating the spirit of love and friendship.
- Ending the Fast:
The fast ends the next morning after performing prayers again and seeking blessings from Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati for a good life.
Conclusion
Hartalika Teej is a beautiful celebration of love, faith, and devotion. It reminds women of the power of love, determination, and dedication through the story of Goddess Parvati. By celebrating this festival, women pray for a happy, peaceful, and blessed life with their loved ones.
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