Kathmandu, Aug 26: The Haritalika Teej festival, observed on Bhadra Shukla Tritiya, is being celebrated today. Devotees perform special worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, with the belief that it brings peace, prosperity, and well-being to the family.
According to Hindu scriptures, Goddess Parvati observed a fast on this very day in Satya Yuga and was granted Lord Shiva as her husband. Based on this belief, women today also observe the fast with the conviction that their wishes will be fulfilled through proper worship. Large crowds of devotees have gathered since early morning at Pashupatinath and other Shiva temples.
Religious scholars note that Teej fasting is not limited to going without food and water. There are three forms: Nirahara (without food and water), Jalahara (only water), and Phalahara (only fruits). Dr. Ram Chandra Upadhyay explains that those unable to observe a waterless fast due to health conditions can still participate by eating simple food like wheat or maize bread and fruits such as apples, oranges, and bananas.
The festival is observed for different purposes: married women pray for the long life of their husbands, unmarried girls fast for good life partners, and many also seek blessings for children. In essence, the fast is believed to fulfill wishes and ensure family welfare.
On the eve of the fast, women gather for “Dar,” a feast hosted mostly by their maternal homes and brothers. This serves as preparation for the following day’s fast.
Beyond fasting, Teej is also a cultural expression. Women use the occasion to share personal hardships through songs and dances. After the feast on Thursday, the celebrations continue until Rishi Panchami. The festival includes Haritalika fasting on Tritiya, worship of Lord Ganesh on Chaturthi, and concludes with bathing rituals and worship of the Saptarishis along with Arundhati on Panchami.
People’s News Monitoring Service
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