About Teej
Teej is a vibrant Hindu festival celebrated primarily by women, especially in Nepal and some parts of India, with great enthusiasm and fervor. It usually falls in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, marking the onset of the monsoon season and symbolizing the union of Goddess Parvati with Lord Shiva. The festival is characterized by fasting, prayers, and rituals dedicated to marital bliss and the well-being of husbands. Women adorn themselves in colorful traditional attire, apply intricate henna designs on their hands, and gather to sing, dance, and celebrate. Teej is also a time for women to bond, share stories, and strengthen friendships. The festival holds deep cultural and social significance, reflecting the spirit of love, devotion, and unity among communities. It serves as a reminder of the enduring values of faith, companionship, and joyous festivities in Hindu culture.
Why we celebrate Teej
Understanding the Significance: Learn about the significance and cultural importance of Teej, which is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and commemorates her union with Lord Shiva. Understand the different types of Teej celebrated, including Hariyali Teej, Kajari Teej, and Hartalika Teej, each with its own customs and rituals. Preparation and Planning: Prepare for Teej by cleaning and decorating your home with colorful decorations, flowers, and traditional motifs. Plan for special rituals, fasting, and festivities associated with the festival. Observing Fasting: Participate in the Teej fast observed by married and unmarried women, where they abstain from food and water for the entire day, praying for the well-being and longevity of their husbands (for married women) or for finding a suitable life partner (for unmarried women). Traditional Attire and Jewelry: Dress up in traditional Rajasthani attire, including colorful lehengas, cholis, and dupattas adorned with mirror work, embroidery, and embellishments. Wear traditional jewelry like mangalsutra, bangles, earrings, and nose rings to enhance the festive look. Mehendi (Henna) Application: Apply intricate mehendi (henna) designs on hands and feet as part of Teej preparations. Decorate your palms and soles with beautiful patterns and motifs, symbolizing beauty, love, and auspiciousness. Swings and Celebrations: Enjoy swinging on beautifully decorated swings (jhoolas) adorned with flowers and ribbons, symbolizing joy and merriment. Participate in cultural programs, folk music, and dance performances organized in communities and households. Offerings and Puja: Offer prayers and puja to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva, seeking their blessings for marital harmony, prosperity, and well-being. Perform traditional rituals like offering flowers, fruits, sweets, and incense to the deities. Fasting Rituals: Break the Teej fast after sighting the moon in the evening sky, following the traditional rituals and prayers. Consume a simple and nutritious meal called "sargi" before sunrise and offer prayers for the long life and happiness of family members. Community Gatherings: Join community gatherings and Teej celebrations organized in temples, parks, and cultural centers. Interact with fellow devotees and share experiences, blessings, and festive spirit. Music and Dance Performances: Enjoy traditional Rajasthani folk music, dance, and cultural performances featuring ghoomar, kalbelia, bhavai, and other vibrant dance forms. Participate in the lively festivities and express joy through music and dance. Exchanging Gifts: Exchange gifts and tokens of love with family members, friends, and relatives as a gesture of goodwill and affection. Share sweets, dry fruits, and traditional items like bangles, bindis, and cosmetics as gifts of appreciation. Reflection and Gratitude: Take moments for personal reflection and introspection, expressing gratitude for the blessings of marital bliss, love, and companionship. Reflect on the values of devotion, sacrifice, and commitment embodied by Teej festivities.
