Celebrating Hariyali Teej: A Joyous Festival of Love, Devotion, and Greenery

Hariyali Teej: Significance, Rituals, and Celebrations of the Festival of Love and Greenery

What is Hariyali Teej?

Hariyali Teej is one of the most vibrant and spiritually significant festivals in the Hindu calendar, especially celebrated in North Indian states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Haryana. This festival marks the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and is observed on the third day of the bright half of the Shravan month (July–August). The word ‘Hariyali’ symbolizes greenery, as the festival falls during the lush monsoon season, and ‘Teej’ means the third day.

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The Significance of Hariyali Teej

The primary significance of Hariyali Teej lies in the celebration of marital bliss and devotion between Shiva and Parvati. According to mythology, it was on this day that Parvati’s 108th penance finally united her with Lord Shiva. Thus, married women observe fasts and perform rituals praying for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. Unmarried girls also fast in hopes of finding a loving and suitable partner.

The festival also represents prosperity, growth, and fertility, aligning with the monsoon’s arrival that turns the earth green and fertile—hence the name Hariyali Teej.

Traditional Rituals and Customs

The day of Hariyali Teej begins early with women bathing, adorning themselves in green-colored sarees, bangles, and applying mehendi (henna) on their hands, symbolizing prosperity. Green, the color of life and harmony, is dominant during the festival.

Fasting is one of the most significant customs of Hariyali Teej. Women observe a nirjala vrat—a fast without food or water—throughout the day. They worship Goddess Parvati and offer flowers, fruits, and sweets, especially ghewar, a special delicacy made during Teej.

Swinging on beautifully decorated swings hung from trees is another cherished tradition. Women sing traditional Teej songs, dance, and rejoice in groups, celebrating sisterhood and feminine energy.

Cultural Celebrations Across India

In Rajasthan, Hariyali Teej is celebrated with grand processions. The idol of Goddess Parvati is adorned and taken out in a beautifully decorated palanquin with folk dancers, musicians, and devotees joining the colorful parade.

In Haryana, the government hosts state-level Hariyali Teej fairs featuring cultural programs, traditional food stalls, and craft exhibitions. Women receive gifts called Sindhara, which include sweets, clothes, and cosmetics from their parents.

Uttar Pradesh and Bihar witness temple visits, kirtans (devotional songs), and collective fasting rituals that strengthen community bonds and spiritual discipline.

Hariyali Teej and the Monsoon Connection

The festival is deeply rooted in the monsoon season. As the land rejuvenates with rain, Hariyali Teej celebrates this rebirth. The swinging rituals, green attire, and floral decorations are a tribute to nature’s lush beauty. It also serves as a break for women from their routine, giving them a joyous occasion to connect with friends, relatives, and spiritual roots.

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Conclusion

Hariyali Teej is more than just a festival; it’s a vibrant tribute to womanhood, love, devotion, and nature. It reminds us of the power of faith, the strength of prayer, and the beauty of seasonal change. As women come together to observe fasts, sing folk songs, and sway on swings under rain-kissed trees, Hariyali Teej paints a picture of harmony, tradition, and joyous celebration.

Embrace this Hariyali Teej by honoring its rich customs, wearing your favorite green outfit, and celebrating the bond of eternal love and spiritual growth.

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