Hartalika Teej, a significant Hindu festival dedicated to the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, will be celebrated on September 6, 2024. This auspicious occasion is particularly important for women, who observe fasts and perform rituals to seek blessings for marital bliss and prosperity.
Key Information
| Details | Time and Date |
|---|---|
| Date of Hartalika Teej | September 6, 2024 |
| Tritiya Tithi Begins | September 5, 2024, at 12:21 PM |
| Tritiya Tithi Ends | September 6, 2024, at 3:01 PM |
| Pratahkala Hartalika Puja Muhurat | 6:03 AM to 8:34 AM |
| Duration of Puja | 2 hours 31 minutes |
Significance of Hartalika Teej
Hartalika Teej is celebrated on the Shukla Paksha Tritiya of the Bhadrapada month. The festival’s name derives from the Sanskrit words “Harat” (abduction) and “Aalika” (female friend), narrating the story of Goddess Parvati, who was taken to a forest by her friends to escape an unwanted marriage to Lord Vishnu. Instead, she wished to marry Lord Shiva, leading her to perform intense penance to win his love.
This festival is marked by various rituals, including the creation of clay idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, which are worshipped by women seeking blessings for their husbands’ longevity and well-being. Unmarried women also participate, praying for a suitable life partner.
Rituals and Celebrations
The day begins with women taking a ceremonial bath, dressing in vibrant attire, and applying mehndi (henna) designs on their hands. The rituals include:
- Morning Bath: Women bathe with a mixture of sesame and amla powder.
- Puja Preparation: Setting up the altar with clay idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
- Prayers and Offerings: Performing the Shodashopachara (sixteen-step) Puja, starting with worshipping Lord Ganesh.
- Story Narration: Reciting the Hartalika Vrat Katha, emphasizing the significance of devotion and love.
Cultural Variations
While Hartalika Teej is predominantly celebrated in North India, it is known as Gowri Habba in South India, where similar rituals are performed to honor Goddess Gauri. The festival fosters community spirit and strengthens familial bonds, with women gathering to celebrate together.
Hartalika Teej is not only a day of devotion but also a celebration of women's aspirations for love and marital happiness. As the festival approaches, preparations are underway across various regions, with women eagerly looking forward to this auspicious occasion.
Happy Teej Wishes
As the festival draws near, wishes of “Happy Teej” and blessings for a joyful married life resonate among families and friends. The vibrant celebrations, adorned with traditional attire and intricate mehndi designs, reflect the cultural richness and spiritual significance of this beloved festival.
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