BhaktiLoopHari Talika Teej
Observed by married women for the longevity, prosperity, and well-being of their husbands and for a blissful marital life. Unmarried women observe it to pray for a good and desired husband. It commemorates Goddess Parvati's severe penance to marry Lord Shiva.
Key Rituals & Practices
Nirjala Vrat (strict waterless fast) observed by women for an entire day and night.
Worship of clay idols of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha.
Performing elaborate puja with offerings of flowers, fruits, sweets, 'solah shringar' items (16 adornments) for Goddess Parvati, and other traditional items.
Listening to the Haritalika Teej Vrat Katha (story) which narrates the legend of Parvati's devotion.
Singing devotional songs (bhajans) and performing 'jagarana' (all-night vigil) praying to Shiva and Parvati.
Applying intricate mehndi (henna) designs on hands and feet.
Breaking the fast on the following morning after performing puja and offering food to Brahmins.
Associated Deities
Hindu Calendar Details
Hindu Month
Bhadrapada
Paksha
Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight)
Tithi
Tritiya (third day)
Regional Relevance & Variations
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Historical & Mythological Context
The festival commemorates the legendary devotion and severe penance (tapasya) of Goddess Parvati to win Lord Shiva as her husband. According to the legend, Parvati, in her incarnation as Shailaputri (daughter of Himalaya), wished to marry Lord Shiva. Her father, however, wanted to marry her to Lord Vishnu. To avoid this, her female 'abducted' her (hence 'Hari-talika' from 'Harit' meaning abduction and 'Alika' meaning female friend) to a dense forest, where she performed rigorous penance without food or water. Impressed by her unwavering determination and devotion, Lord Shiva finally appeared and accepted her as his wife on this day. Women observe this fast to seek similar devotion, strength, and blessings for a loving and long-lasting marital bond.
Alternative Names
Gregorian Date
Varies annually (typically August or September)