Hariyali Teej 2024: Everything You Need to Know
Date and Muhurat Time
Hariyali Teej, also known as Shravana Teej, is a significant festival celebrated primarily in the northern regions of India. In 2024, Hariyali Teej will be observed on August 8th. This festival falls on the third day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Shravana (Sawan), which typically corresponds to July or August in the Gregorian calendar.
Table of Contents
The muhurat time for Hariyali Teej in 2024 is as follows:
- Tritiya Tithi Begins: 07:23 AM on August 7, 2024
- Tritiya Tithi Ends: 09:33 AM on August 8, 2024
Significance of Hariyali Teej
Hariyali Teej holds deep cultural and spiritual significance, particularly for married women. The festival is dedicated to the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to Hindu mythology, it was on this day that Goddess Parvati reunited with Lord Shiva after intense penance and numerous rebirths. Therefore, the festival symbolizes marital bliss, fertility, and devotion.
Married women, in particular, observe this festival with great reverence, praying for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. Unmarried women also participate, seeking a suitable life partner.
Rituals and Celebrations Hariyali Teej 2024
1. Fasting and Prayers:
- Women observe a day-long fast, refraining from food and water (nirjala vrat) to honor Goddess Parvati. The fast is broken only after moonrise.
- Devotees wake up early, take a holy bath, and wear new clothes, preferably in green, which symbolizes nature and fertility.
2. Dressing Up:
- Women adorn themselves in traditional attire, usually green sarees or suits, and accessorize with jewelry and mehndi (henna) on their hands and feet. Green is considered auspicious and represents growth and prosperity.
3. Swings (Jhoolas):
- Swinging on decorated swings hung from trees is a popular tradition. Women sing traditional Teej songs and enjoy swinging, which symbolizes joy and the monsoon season.
4. Teej Songs and Dances:
- Folk songs and dances are integral to the celebrations. Women gather to sing and dance, expressing their joy and devotion. These cultural activities are often accompanied by the beats of traditional musical instruments.
5. Teej Puja:
- A special puja is performed, where idols or images of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva are worshipped. Women offer fruits, flowers, and sweets to the deities. The puja thali is beautifully decorated with items like kumkum, rice, and incense sticks.
6. Exchange of Gifts:
- It’s customary for mothers-in-law to gift their daughters-in-law new clothes, jewelry, and sweets, signifying blessings and love. These gifts are known as ‘Shrinjhara’ or ‘Sindhara’.
7. Savory and Sweet Delicacies:
- Festive foods are prepared, including ghevar, kheer, malpua, and other traditional sweets. These delicacies are enjoyed by the family and offered as prasad during the puja.
8. Community Gatherings:
- Women often participate in community gatherings where they engage in various cultural activities, share stories, and strengthen social bonds.
Regional Variations
While Hariyali Teej is celebrated with similar fervor across northern India, there are regional variations in the rituals and customs:
- Rajasthan: The festival is celebrated with grand processions, where idols of Goddess Parvati are taken out in beautifully decorated palanquins. The local fairs and markets buzz with activity, selling traditional clothes, jewelry, and sweets.
- Uttar Pradesh: In regions like Mathura and Vrindavan, Hariyali Teej is celebrated with devotion, where temples are decorated, and special prayers are held. Women participate in Rasleela performances, depicting the life of Lord Krishna.
- Madhya Pradesh: The festival is marked by vibrant folk dances and songs. Women gather in groups, dressed in colorful attire, and celebrate with enthusiasm.
- Punjab and Haryana: Here, Hariyali Teej is synonymous with community feasts and cultural programs. Women perform Gidda and Bhangra, traditional folk dances of the region.
Modern Celebrations
In contemporary times, while the essence of Hariyali Teej remains intact, the way it is celebrated has evolved. Urban areas see a blend of traditional and modern practices:
- Social Media Influence: Women share their festive looks, recipes, and celebration moments on social media platforms, connecting with a broader community.
- Organized Events: Cultural societies and organizations host Teej events, offering a platform for women to showcase their talents in singing, dancing, and cooking.
- Eco-friendly Celebrations: With growing environmental awareness, there is a shift towards eco-friendly celebrations. Biodegradable materials are used for decorations, and organic products are preferred for rituals.
Conclusion
Hariyali Teej is a festival that beautifully weaves together devotion, culture, and community. It is a time for women to come together, celebrate their marital bond, and seek divine blessings for a prosperous life. As the monsoon rains rejuvenate the earth, Hariyali Teej brings joy, hope, and a sense of renewal to the lives of those who celebrate it.
