This year, Hariyali Teej will be celebrated on Wednesday, 7 August, 2024. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm by North Indian women, especially in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand.
Married women observe the Hariyali Teej fast on this day for the well-being and long life of their husbands. It is believed that worshipping Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati on this day brings a fortunate life for married women and longevity for their husbands. It is also known as Shravani Teej. This fast falls on the Tritiya (third) day of the Shukla Paksha of the Sawan month. Hariyali Teej is a festival that brings happiness and contentment to those who participate in the celebrations. It offers families an opportunity to unite, strengthening their bonds while seeking harmony and peace in their lives.
Hariyali Teej generally falls two days before Nag Panchami. Women observe a fast on this day in Sawan to wish for a good husband. It is believed that Goddess Parvati performed intense penance to have Lord Shiva as her husband. After this rigorous penance and in her 108th birth, she finally got Lord Shiva as her husband. It is said that Lord Shiva accepted Goddess Parvati as his wife on the Tritiya of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Shravan, and hence, women observe this fast on this day.
According to the Hindi Panchang, the Tritiya Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Savan will begin at 7:52 PM on August 6, 2024, and end at 10:05 PM on August 7, 2024.
Dos:
- Traditional attire is to be opted for the occasion. Women commonly choose green clothing as it symbolizes longevity, good health, and marital happiness. Additionally, red attire can also be worn, representing strength, love, and dedication.
- Arti is performed and prayers are offered to both Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati to ensure the longevity of their husbands. Those fasting on this day can listen to the tale of Hariyali Teej’s observance.
- During the puja, dishes such as puri, artisanal sweets like laddoo and halwa, and fresh fruits are presented as offerings.
- People rise early during the Brahma Muhurat, which occurs two hours before dawn. They take a bath and dress in clean clothes.
- On the day prior, women adorn their hands with mehndi designs and wear green bangles, symbolizing longevity and joy for their spouses.
- Women fasting during Hariyali Teej should extend special care to the elderly and communicate respectfully and kindly.
Don’ts:
- Prioritize your health and refrain from neglecting it.
- The Nirjala fast, where even water is abstained from, should be avoided if you are unwell or pregnant.
- If you are on diabetic treatments like insulin, consult your doctor before fasting. First-time fasters should be particularly cautious.
- While fasting, avoid afternoon naps, as per religious customs, they are considered inauspicious.
- During the fast, avoid wearing black or white attire or accessories, as these colours are deemed inauspicious.
- One should refrain from harming the environment or Mother Nature. During puja, it is common to litter roads and water bodies with pooja materials, which should be avoided.
Hariyali Teej rituals include bathing in sacred rivers or reservoirs, praying to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, performing ceremonies such as Hawan or Yagna, reciting mantras, offering sweets, lighting lamps, and more. To receive the most blessings from the deities, each of these actions must be carried out with sincerity.
Following the puja, family and friends share offerings such as flowers, fruits, and sweets, fostering a joyful atmosphere and positive atmosphere within the household. Following the ritual, married women tie a special thread around their wrists as a good luck and prosperity symbol.
