It is that time of the year when festivities in India line up back to back! These traditions and festivals are adorned with numerous celebrations that hold immense cultural and religious significance. One such festival celebrated predominantly by Hindu women is Hartalika Teej. Let's explore the date, significance, and puja vidhi (rituals) associated with Hartalika Teej 2023.
Hartalika Teej 2023 Date & Shubh Muhurat
Hartalika Teej, also known as Teej, is observed on the third day of the bright half of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada. In 2023, Hartalika Teej falls on September 13th. This festival is celebrated with great fervour in various parts of India, including Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Haryana.
The time from 6 am to 8.24 pm on September 18 is suitable for worshipping Shiva and Parvati. But performing puja in the evening during Pradosh Kaal is considered very good. - Take a resolution from the morning and observe a nirjala vrat (waterless fast), if your health is not good, you can also eat fruits.
Hartalika Teej Significance
Hartalika Teej is primarily a women's festival celebrated by married and unmarried women alike. The word "Teej" is derived from the Sanskrit word "teeja," which means "a third." This festival holds a special place in the hearts of women as it symbolises their devotion to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Hartalika Teej 2023: Date, Significance Of Festival Dedicated To Lord Shiva & Goddess Parvati
The legend behind Hartalika Teej is rooted in Hindu mythology. It is believed that Goddess Parvati, in her deep devotion to Lord Shiva, went against her father's wishes and left her royal home to perform intense penance in the forest. Her friend, Hartalika, played a crucial role in helping Parvati unite with Shiva. To commemorate this love and devotion, women fast on this day and pray for a blissful and harmonious married life, as well as the well-being of their husbands.
Hartalika Teej Puja Vidhi
The celebration of Hartalika Teej involves various rituals and customs:
- Fasting: Women observe a day-long fast without consuming food or water. The fast is broken only after performing the evening puja and seeking blessings.
- Preparation: Women adorn themselves in vibrant and traditional attire, typically green or red, and wear intricate jewellery. They apply henna (mehndi) on their hands and feet, adding to the festive spirit.
- Swing: Women and girls often participate in swings decorated with flowers, which is a symbol of joy and happiness.
- Puja Preparation: A sacred place or altar is set up in homes with an idol or image of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This idol is often made of clay or silver. Other items required for the puja include flowers, fruits, sweets, incense, and a lit diya (lamp).
- Puja Rituals: The evening puja is performed with great devotion. Women offer prayers, sing bhajans (devotional songs), and recite hymns(bhajans) dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
- Legends: Elders or family members often narrate the legend of Hartalika Teej to the younger generation, passing down the cultural and spiritual significance of the festival.
- Breaking the Fast: After the evening puja, women break their fast by consuming a special meal prepared for the occasion. This meal typically includes sweets, and other delicious dishes.
Watch Video: Hartalika Teej Vrat Katha
Hartalika Teej 2023 Wishes, Greetings and Pics To Celebrate the Auspicious Festival of Shravan Maas
Hartalika Teej is not just a festival; it's a celebration of love, devotion, and the strength of women. It provides an opportunity for women to connect with their spirituality and express their love and dedication to their spouses. The puja vidhi and rituals associated with this festival have been cherished for generations, adding to the cultural tapestry of India.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 17, 2023 02:04 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).