The monsoon showers bring lush greenery along with the Shravan maas (month of Shravan) which marks the beginning of the festive season in India. One among these is the festival of Hariyali Teej which celebrates love, devotion, and the renewal of nature.
It holds the same significance as that of Karwa Chauth wherein married women observe fasts, praying for the good health and long life of their husbands.
If you are also preparing up for the Teej festival, in 2024, then keep reading to learn more about its celebration date, significance, and rituals associated with it.
When is Hariyali Teej 2024?
According to the Hindu calendar, Hariyali teej falls on the Tritiya (third day) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Shravan (July-August).
This year, in 2024, it will be celebrated on Thursday, August 7th, followed by Kajari Teej on August 22nd and Haritalika Teej on September 6th.
The Teej festival mainly aligns with the monsoon season, adding a fresh and verdant touch to the festivities.
The Significance of Hariyali Teej
Hariyali Teej, (also known as Shravan Teej/Chhoti Teej, or Madhusrava Teej), is a festival dedicated to the divine couple, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed that Goddess Parvati performed deep penance for several years to unite with Shiva, and her perseverance and devotion were rewarded on this day. It was on this day, that Lord Shiva finally accepted her as his wife.
The word 'Hariyali' means greenery, reflecting the lush environment brought by the monsoon rains. For many married women, Hariyali Teej symbolizes marital harmony, fertility, and the well-being of their husbands. The festival is an expression of their love and commitment, where they seek blessings for a happy and prosperous married life.
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Rituals and Traditions
Here are some famous traditions associated with the Teej festival:
The Swings and Songs
One of the best aspects of Hariyali Teej is the tradition of swings. Swings are hung from large trees, and decorated with flowers & colorful fabrics. Women take turns to swing on them while singing traditional Teej songs. These songs are often about love, the beauty of nature, and the monsoon season, which create a joyous and festive atmosphere.
Fasting and Prayers
Fasting is a significant part of Hariyali Teej, with many women observing a Nirjala Vrat (a fast without water) to seek the blessings of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva.
During this time, you’d find most women dressed in their finest traditional attire, often wearing green sarees or suits to symbolize the lush greenery of the monsoon. They adorn themselves with beautiful jewelry, apply henna on their hands, and get together for the puja ceremony.
During the puja, the teej katha is recited and fruits, flowers, and sweets are offered to Goddess Parvati.
Women observing the fast with utmost devotion and faith are blessed with marital happiness and longevity of their partners.
Sindhara
During the festival of Teej, married daughters, and her in-laws receive Sindhara from their mothers. Sindhara is usually a gift hamper that includes items like clothes, bangles, bindi, mehendi (henna), and a special sweet called Ghevar.
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Celebrations Across India
Hariyali Teej is celebrated with great enthusiasm in various parts of India, each region adding its unique flavor to the festival.
In Rajasthan, the festivities are grand, with women donning traditional ghagras and participating in cultural festivities. The streets come alive with music, dance, and a display of local handicrafts and delicacies.
In Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, women gather to sing Teej songs, exchange gifts, and participate in community feasts. The songs are an important part of the celebration, which is all about tales of love, devotion, and the beauty of nature.
In Haryana, the day is marked by various cultural programs, including folk dances and music performances, which reflect the true joyous spirit of the festival.
Takeaway
Hariyali Teej is more than just a festival; it's a celebration of love, devotion, and the renewal of nature. Festivals like these, remind us to celebrate life, love, and the lush beauty of the monsoon season by enjoying swinging on a beautifully decorated swing, singing traditional songs, or fasting in devotion.
