Hartalika Teej Vrat 2024: Fasting Rules, Rituals, Dos, and Don'ts
Introduction:
Hartalika Teej, celebrated by Hindu women, is a significant festival honoring Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Observed on the third day (Tritiya) during the waning moon of the Bhadrapada month, Teej holds a special place in the Hindu calendar. Devotees undertake a rigorous fast and perform various rituals seeking divine blessings for a happy married life and the well-being of their husbands.
Fasting Rules and Rituals:
Fasting:
Hartalika Teej involves a strict fast observed by women from sunrise to moonrise. They abstain from consuming food and water during this period.
Devotees break their fast after offering prayers to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and sighting the moon.
Vrat Katha:
During the fast, women gather to listen to the recitation of the Hartalika Teej Vrat Katha, an epic tale narrating the story of Goddess Parvati's devotion and reunion with Lord Shiva.
Shringar (Adornment):
Women adorn themselves with traditional attire, jewelry, and mehndi (henna) designs.
Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati Idols:
Families install small idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati in their homes and offer prayers throughout the day.
Puja:
In the evening, a grand puja is performed, where offerings of fruits, flowers, and sweets are made to the deities.
Dos and Don'ts:
Dos:
- Observe the fast with sincerity and devotion.
- Listen to the Vrat Katha attentively.
- Offer prayers to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
- Apply henna on hands and feet.
- Break the fast after sighting the moon.
Don'ts:
- Consume food or water during the fast.
- Engage in strenuous activities.
- Use harsh language or argue with others.
- Sleep during daytime.
- Break the fast before sighting the moon.
Historical Significance and Observance:
Hartalika Teej commemorates the reunion of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati after Goddess Parvati's intense penance to win his heart.
The festival is predominantly celebrated in North India, particularly in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Bihar, and is also observed in some parts of Nepal.
Conclusion:
Hartalika Teej is a sacred festival that celebrates the divine bond between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. By observing the fast and performing the rituals with faith and devotion, devotees seek blessings for a harmonious marriage and the well-being of their loved ones.
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