By Pritam Yadav 
Teej is one of the most significant festivals celebrated by women in India, particularly in the states of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh. It marks the celebration of marital bliss, the well-being of spouses, and the prosperity of families. In 2024, Hartalika Teej will be observed with great fervor and devotion, bringing joy and blessings to countless households.
What is Teej?
Teej is a collection of Hindu festivals that celebrate the monsoon season and the devotion of women towards their husbands. Among the various Teej festivals, Hartalika Teej holds a special place. It is observed by married and unmarried women who pray for a happy married life and a good husband, respectively.
Hartalika Teej Vrat Katha: The Sacred Story
The Hartalika Teej Vrat Katha is an essential part of the celebrations. The story revolves around Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. According to the mythological tale, Parvati, determined to marry Shiva, performed severe penance. Impressed by her devotion, Shiva agreed to marry her. The day they were united is celebrated as Hartalika Teej.
The term “Hartalika” is derived from two words—’Harat’ meaning abduction and ‘Aalika’ meaning female friend. The legend states that Parvati’s friend took her to a dense forest so that her father could not marry her off to Vishnu against her will. Parvati’s unwavering devotion and determination are honored during this festival, and women emulate her example through fasting and prayers.
Hartalika Puja Vidhi and Muhurat 2024
Performing the Hartalika Puja with complete devotion is believed to bring immense blessings. In 2024, the Hartalika Teej Puja Muhurat is particularly auspicious, and observing the rituals during this time is highly recommended.
- Hartalika Teej 2024 Date: September 6, 2024
- Puja Muhurat Time: The precise puja time may vary depending on the local Panchang, but it generally falls early in the morning or late in the evening.
- Rahu Kaal Today: Rahu Kaal, the inauspicious period, should be avoided while performing the puja. Ensure that your rituals are completed outside this time frame for maximum benefits.
How to Perform the Hartalika Teej Puja
Here’s a simple guide to performing the Hartalika Teej Puja:
- Preparation: Clean your home and create a sacred space for the puja. Decorate the area with flowers and place idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
- Puja Samagri: Gather essential items such as clay idols of Shiva and Parvati, flowers, fruits, sweets, kumkum, and mehendi.
- Fasting: Women observe a strict fast (Nirjala Vrat), where they abstain from food and water throughout the day.
- Recitation of Vrat Katha: The most crucial part of the puja is the recitation of the Hartalika Teej Vrat Katha. It is usually done in the evening, followed by prayers and offerings.
- Aarti: Perform the Hartalika Aarti with a deep sense of devotion, seeking blessings for marital harmony and prosperity.
- Breaking the Fast: The fast is typically broken the next morning after offering prayers to the deities.
Teej Vrat Katha: A Journey of Devotion
Apart from the Hartalika Teej, other Teej festivals like Hariyali Teej and Kajari Teej also have their own significance and Vrat Kathas. These stories highlight the unyielding faith of women in their husbands and the divine.
Happy Teej Wishes and Messages
Celebrate this Teej by sharing heartfelt wishes with your loved ones. Here are some beautiful Happy Teej Wishes to spread joy and positivity:
- English: “May this Teej bring joy, love, and prosperity into your life. Happy Hartalika Teej!”
- Hindi: “हरतालिका तीज की शुभकामनाएं! भगवान शिव और माता पार्वती का आशीर्वाद आपके परिवार पर सदैव बना रहे।”
Mehendi: The Art of Adornment
No Teej celebration is complete without the intricate designs of Mehendi. Women adorn their hands with simple Mehendi designs or more elaborate ones to enhance their beauty and complete their festive look. Mehendi is not just an art form; it symbolizes love and affection, making it an integral part of the Teej celebrations.
Hartalika Teej 2024: Dates, Times, and Panchang
- Hartalika Teej 2024 Date and Time: September 6, 2024
- Puja Muhurat: As mentioned earlier, the precise muhurat is crucial. Check your local Panchang or use online resources to ensure you perform the puja at the right time.
Conclusion
Teej 2024 is not just a festival but a celebration of the sacred bond between husband and wife. By observing the Hartalika Teej Vrat, performing the Hartalika Puja, and participating in the traditional rituals, women renew their vows of love and devotion. Whether you are fasting for your husband’s long life or praying for a good husband, the significance of Teej transcends time, making it one of the most cherished festivals in the Hindu calendar.
May this Hartalika Teej bring joy, happiness, and divine blessings into your life. Happy Hartalika Teej to you and your family!