Hariyali Teej 2018: Its history, significance and how to celebrate

During the monsoon festival of Hariyali Teej, the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati is celebrated. It honours the day when Lord Shiva accepted Goddess Parvati’s love.

According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Parvati went through the birth and re-birth cycle a total of 108 times until Lord Shiva took notice of her single minded dedication and agreed to marry her. Teej festival celebrates this very dedication which was exhibited by Parvati.

Teej is also significant because of the fact that many hold the belief that it was on this day that Goddess Durga had said that fasting and doing certain rituals shall ensure that women lead a happily married life.

Teej is celebrated by married Hindu women who pray for the good health of their husbands. They dress up in traditional clothes, and the colour green is a popular theme, as suggested by the name, Hariyali Teej. The colour green is representative of the monsoon season which is responsible for increasing the level of greenery.

It is a tradition during this day for women to receive gifts from their mother, in laws, husbands and other members of the family. It is also common for some daughters to visit their parent’s house and return after Rakhi.

Hariyali Teej is also known as Shravan Teej or Choti Teej. It began at 8:38 am today and shall continue till August 14.

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First Published: Aug 13, 2018 13:21 IST