Hariyali Teej 2025 - Sunday, Jul 27

Hariyali Teej is a Hindu festival celebrated primarily in the Indian states of Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh, as well as in Nepal. It usually falls in the month of Sawan (July-August) and is dedicated to the goddess Parvati.

Lush green surroundings and lively ambiance of the gardens come alive as groups of young women sing songs and sway on the jhoolas (swings) specially created for festivities. The occasion is Teej or popularly known as Hariyali Teej. Teej in its literal sense means ‘third’ and usually falls on third day after Amavasaya. The Teej festivities during the month of Shravana are considered to be auspicious. The festivities fall during the rainy season therefore the Teej is also referred to as Hariyali Teej.

Mythologically, Hariyali Teej is deeply rooted in the stories and symbolism of Hindu mythology, particularly revolving around the figures of goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. Here are some mythological aspects associated with the festival:

1. The Union of Parvati and Shiva: According to Hindu mythology, goddess Parvati, an incarnation of Sati, undertook severe penance and fasting to win the love of Lord Shiva. Her devotion was so profound that it ultimately led Shiva to notice her, leading to their union. Hariyali Teej celebrates this divine love and their sacred marriage.

2. The Significance of the Monsoon: The festival occurs during the monsoon season, symbolizing the renewal and rejuvenation of nature. In mythology, the rains are often associated with the goddess's blessings and the nourishment of the earth. The lush greenery and abundance during this time are seen as a result of divine grace.

3. Parvati’s Devotion and Challenges: The mythological narrative often emphasizes the trials and challenges Parvati faced to prove her love and devotion. Her persistence in winning Shiva’s love is seen as a testament to the power of devotion and righteousness. Hariyali Teej commemorates her efforts and the triumph of devotion over adversity.

4. Symbolism of Greenery: The festival’s association with greenery and nature is symbolic of fertility and prosperity. In mythology, green is often linked with abundance and growth, reflecting the goddess’s role in sustaining and nurturing life.

Customs of Hariyali Teej 

The festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. As the festival is celebrated during the Shraavana month, devotees observe various fasts that relate to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Hariyali Teej is also celebrated as a mark of respect by the married ladies and they prey to Goddess Parvati to offer them a blissful life with their husbands.

During Hariyali Teej, several rituals are performed to honor goddess Parvati and seek her blessings. These include:

1. Vrat (Fasting): Women fast from sunrise to moonrise, abstaining from food and water. Some women might have a small meal of fruits and milk.

2. Puja (Worship): Women gather in temples or at home to perform puja. They offer prayers, flowers, and sweets to goddess Parvati. The puja often includes the recitation of hymns and prayers dedicated to the goddess.

3. Swings (Jhoolas): A traditional aspect of the festival is the swinging of decorated swings, which symbolize the joy of the monsoon season. Women and children swing on these swings while singing traditional songs.

4. Henna (Mehndi) Application: Applying henna on hands and feet is a common practice. The intricate designs are believed to bring good fortune and enhance the beauty of the wearer.

5. Green Clothing and Decor: Women dress in green attire and decorate their homes with green leaves, signifying fertility and prosperity.

6. Songs and Dance: Women gather to sing traditional songs related to the festival and perform folk dances. These songs often narrate the stories of goddess Parvati and celebrate the festival's significance.

7. Preparation of Special Foods: Special sweets and dishes are prepared, including traditional treats like ghewar and puris. These are often shared with family and friends.

In some parts of the country, the girl’s parents send special gifts to her in-laws home on this auspicious occasion. The gift box commonly known by the name of Sindhara contains sweets prepared at home, a Ghewar along with some heena and bangles for their daughter.  The festival is celebrated by girls and married women with much fanfare in Indian states of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Bihar.

The festival holds significance for both married ladies and unmarried girls. While the married ladies pray to Goddess Parvati for a blissful and a happy married life, the unmarried girls pray to Lord Shiva to gift them with a caring husband.

Myth and Legends Behind Hariyali Teej Celebrations

In Hindu Mythology, it is generally believed that it was on this occasion of Hariyali Teej that Lord Shiva finally agreed to marry Goddess Parvati. As per prevailing myths, Goddess Parvati was in love with Lord Shiva and wanted him to be her soul mate.

However, being an ascetic, Lord Shiva did not realize of Parvati’s devotion for him. He lived in deep forests and meditated all the while. He was unaware of the developing scenario. Goddess Parvati realized the fact that it was not an easy task to woo Lord Shiva. So she embarked on the treacherous journey to the Himalayas. It was in the Himalayas that she finally decided to meditate to attract the attention of Lord Shiva.

Lord Shiva came to know about the selfless devotion of Goddess Parvati and decided to marry her. Thereafter, Goddess Parvati is known to be worshiped as ‘Hartalika’ and ‘Teej Mata’ by married women across the country, particularly in some states of Northern India.

Hariyali Teej is associated with several legends and stories, primarily revolving around goddess Parvati and her marriage to Lord Shiva. Here are some of the key legends:

1. Parvati’s Devotion: One of the main legends is about goddess Parvati’s intense devotion and penance to win the love of Lord Shiva. It is said that Parvati undertook severe austerities and fasts to please Shiva, who had initially been indifferent. Her dedication eventually won his affection, and they were married. Hariyali Teej celebrates this reunion and the power of devotion and perseverance.

2. The Story of Sati: Another legend associated with Teej is related to Sati, Shiva’s first wife. According to the story, Sati was born as Parvati in her next life to fulfill her destiny and reunite with Shiva. Hariyali Teej marks the day when Parvati, in her incarnation as Sati, began her rigorous penance to win Shiva back.

3. Teej and the Monsoon: There’s also a legend that connects the festival to the arrival of the monsoon. It is believed that the monsoon showers brought by the goddess Parvati were a blessing to the earth, making it lush and green. The festival, therefore, also celebrates the vitality and fertility of nature brought by the rains.

These legends underscore themes of devotion, love, and the natural cycle of life and renewal, making Hariyali Teej a significant and joyous festival.