BhaktiLoopHartalika Teej
Celebrates the reunion of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Married women observe a strict fast for the well-being and longevity of their husbands, while unmarried girls fast to find a desired husband like Lord Shiva.
Key Rituals & Practices
Nirjala Vrat (a strict fast without water or food, observed from sunrise to the next sunrise)
Making idols of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha from clay or sand
Performing elaborate puja (worship) of the deities, often at night
Listening to the Hartalika Teej Katha (legend)
Applying Mehendi (henna) on hands and feet
Wearing new traditional clothes and adornments (sringar)
Jagran (staying awake all night) while singing devotional songs and chanting prayers
Offering fruits, sweets, and flowers to the deities
Breaking the fast on the following morning after performing rituals
Associated Deities
Hindu Calendar Details
Hindu Month
Bhadrapada (Bhado)
Paksha
Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight)
Tithi
Tritiya (third day)
Regional Relevance & Variations
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Historical & Mythological Context
According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Parvati observed severe penance and austerity for many years to marry Lord Shiva. She rejected the proposal of Lord Vishnu and other deities. On the Tritiya of Bhadrapada Shukla Paksha, her female friend ('Alika') helped her escape into a dense forest ('Harit') to avoid an unwanted marriage arranged by her father. There, Parvati prayed intensely and observed a strict fast, creating a Shivlingam out of sand, which eventually pleased Lord Shiva, who accepted her as his wife. Thus, this day is celebrated as Hartalika Teej, symbolizing dedication, devotion, and the power of a woman's resolve to choose her partner.
Alternative Names
Gregorian Date
Variable, typically late August or early September