The festival of Hariyali Teej holds special significance in Indian culture. This day is particularly symbolic of good fortune, love, and devotion for married women. On this day, women worship Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva and observe a waterless fast throughout the day. It is believed that performing the puja and observing the fast with proper rituals ensures a happy married life and a long life for the husband.
This year, Hariyali Teej will be celebrated on July 26, 2025. The Tritiya Tithi (third lunar day) begins at 10:41 PM on this day. However, the fast will be observed throughout the day, and the fast will be broken after performing the puja and listening to the story in the evening.
Mistakes to Avoid While Observing the Fast
The Hariyali Teej fast is as much about emotional connection as it is about rules and traditions. Sometimes, women overlook small details, which can diminish the impact of the fast.
- Avoid Puja During Rahukaal: The auspicious time for Hariyali Teej puja is during Pradosh Kaal (twilight period). However, performing puja during Rahukaal (inauspicious time) is considered forbidden. The fruits of the puja or fasting may be reduced if the puja or fast story happens during Rahukaal. Information about auspicious time should be taken before puja.
- Abstain from Tamasic Foods or Objects: On the day of the Hariyali Teej fast, it is essential to follow a sattvic (pure) lifestyle. One should not consume tamasic foods such as meat, eggs, alcohol, and garlic-onion on this day. Even touching these things can make the fast imperfect. Also, one should refrain from using leather items such as belts, shoes, or purses.
- Observe the Fast with a Pure Heart, Avoid Anger and Strife: This fast is observed not only with the body but also with the mind. If the mind is restless, filled with anger, envy, or strife, the puja is not considered complete. One should maintain a calm mind on the day of the fast and stay away from any kind of conflict.
Special Significance of Shringar (Adornment) and Colors
It is considered very auspicious for women to perform Solah Shringar (sixteen adornments) on Hariyali Teej. It is traditional to wear green, yellow, and red clothes on this day, as these colors are considered dear to Goddess Parvati.
Tradition Associated with Green Color
The green color is considered a symbol of life, prosperity, and happiness. Women wear green bangles, green clothes, and 'lehariya' (a tie-dye technique). This color is not only culturally significant but also a symbol of positive energy.
Importance of Mehndi (Henna)
Applying mehndi on Hariyali Teej is considered auspicious. It is said that the darker the color of the mehndi, the deeper the husband's love. Puja is considered incomplete on this day without applying mehndi.
Pay Attention During Puja
During the puja, meditate on Shiva-Parvati with a pure heart and attention. Light a lamp with proper rituals, offer water, and read or listen to the story.
Precautions While Swinging on a Jhoola (Swing)
The tradition of swinging on a jhoola on Hariyali Teej is very old. Women sing songs in groups while swinging. However, sometimes safety is ignored in the excitement. The jhoola should be installed in a safe place and on a b tree. One should avoid swinging at excessive heights or in crowded places.
Do Not Neglect the Rituals of the Fast
Listening to the story of Shiva-Parvati and performing the puja with rituals is essential during the fast. Sometimes, women leave the story incomplete in a hurry or forget to perform the aarti. This is not considered complete fast.
Rules for Breaking the Fast
The fast should be broken at the right time and according to the rules. Offer bhog (sacred food) to the Lord while breaking the fast and end the fast by drinking water.
Cultural Significance of Hariyali Teej
Hariyali Teej is not limited to just fasting or puja. On this day, women go to their parental homes and celebrate the festival collectively, sing songs, and enjoy fairs and swings. This festival is also a symbol of family love and social interaction.
It is believed that by worshiping on this day, Goddess Parvati is pleased. It is said that on this day, she performed penance to obtain Lord Shiva as her husband and ultimately received him as her consort.
