Hariyali Teej is a vibrant and significant Hindu festival, celebrated with great enthusiasm in the northern states of India, including Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Bihar. This festival, heralding the arrival of the monsoon season, is dedicated to marital happiness, prosperity, and the well-being of loved ones. It is a time when women come together to honor the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, seeking their blessings for a joyful and prosperous married life.
On Hariyali Teej, the air is filled with the scent of fresh flowers and the sound of traditional songs. Women adorn themselves in vibrant green attire, symbolizing fertility and the lush greenery of the monsoon. They embellish their outfits with intricate jewelry and apply beautiful henna designs on their hands. One of the most enchanting sights of this festival is the flower-adorned swings, where women swing joyfully, singing folk songs that celebrate love and devotion.
The preparations for Hariyali Teej begin days in advance. Homes are meticulously cleaned, sanitized, and decorated with fresh flowers. A sacred space is created with a Shiv Lingam and idols of Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva, and Lord Ganesha. These deities are worshipped in a traditional sixteen-step ceremony, known as ‘Shodashopachara,’ which continues throughout the night.
A distinctive aspect of Hariyali Teej is the Nirjala Vrat (fast), observed by women with unwavering devotion. This fast involves abstaining from both food and water for the entire day. Married women undertake this rigorous fast to pray for the long life, health, and prosperity of their husbands and families. Unmarried women also participate, fasting with the hope of finding a suitable life partner and ensuring a happy married life.
The fasting period spans 24 hours, and after the completion of all rituals and prayers, women break their fast by drinking water. This act is often accompanied by a sense of communal joy and solidarity, as the women share their experiences and celebrate the completion of their vows.
Hariyali Teej is not only a spiritual occasion but also a cultural extravaganza. It is a day filled with various activities that bring communities together. Folk dances and music performances are integral to the celebrations, with women dancing gracefully to the tunes of traditional songs. The festival also features fairs and gatherings, where stalls offer sweets, decorative items, and traditional clothing, adding to the festive atmosphere.
In Rajasthan, the celebrations reach a grand scale, especially in the cities of Jaipur and Udaipur. Here, royal processions featuring beautifully adorned idols of Parvati are carried through the streets, accompanied by traditional musicians and dancers. The sight of these processions is truly mesmerizing, drawing visitors from far and wide.
By partaking in the Hariyali Teej celebrations, visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant colors, joyful music, and profound spirituality that define this festival. It is an opportunity to witness the heartfelt devotion of Indian women and the timeless rituals that have been passed down through generations. Hariyali Teej is not just a festival; it is a celebration of life, love, and the nurturing spirit of the monsoon season.
