Hariyali Teej is a vibrant and deeply spiritual festival celebrated by Hindu women, especially in Northern India. Marked by fasting, dressing in green, singing folk songs, and swinging on beautifully decorated jhulas, the festival is observed during the monsoon month of Shravan (Sawan). But behind this colorful celebration lies a powerful story the story of Goddess Parvati’s unwavering devotion and her divine union with Lord Shiva.

What is the Significance of Hariyali Teej?

Hariyali Teej, also known as Shravan Teej, falls on the Tritiya Tithi (third day) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Shravan. The word "Hariyali" means greenery, symbolizing the lush monsoon landscape and new beginnings. The festival honors Goddess Parvati, who is worshipped for her devotion, strength, and ultimate victory in reuniting with Lord Shiva.

For married women, Hariyali Teej is observed to pray for marital happiness and well-being, while unmarried women observe it to seek a husband like Lord Shiva.

The Story of Shiva and Parvati: A Divine Love That Withstood Time

The story of Hariyali Teej is rooted in the timeless tale of Goddess Parvati’s devotion to Lord Shiva.

After being reborn as Shailputri, the daughter of the mountain king Himavan, Parvati expressed her wish to marry Lord Shiva. But Shiva, immersed in deep meditation after the death of his first consort Sati, had renounced the world and showed no interest.

Parvati, however, was undeterred. She performed intense penance (tapasya) for 108 births. Her dedication was so pure and powerful that the heavens were moved. Finally, in her 108th birth, she underwent severe austerity for several years, standing in harsh weather, fasting, and meditating in the forest.

Moved by her selfless love and devotion, Lord Shiva accepted Parvati as his wife, and the two were united forever. This sacred reunion is celebrated as Hariyali Teej, honoring the power of female devotion, patience, and faith.

Rituals Inspired by the Legend

The rituals of Hariyali Teej are deeply connected to this story:

• Nirjala Vrat (fast without water) is observed by women, symbolizing Parvati’s tapasya.

• Women worship Goddess Parvati and decorate swings (Jhulas) with flowers and greenery.

• Teej Katha (story) is recited in gatherings, retelling the divine tale of Shiva and Parvati.

• Women dress in green, wear bangles, apply mehndi, and adorn themselves with solah shringar as symbols of marital prosperity.

Regional Celebrations

Hariyali Teej is especially celebrated with grandeur in:

• Rajasthan: Teej processions and fairs are held, with women dressing as goddesses.

• Uttar Pradesh & Bihar: Traditional songs and Teej vrat are observed in homes.

• Haryana & Madhya Pradesh: Swings, folk songs, and Teej parties are popular.

Modern Meaning of Teej for Women

While rooted in mythological tradition, Hariyali Teej today is also a celebration of womanhood of patience, strength, self-love, and devotion. It brings women together to bond, share stories, express joy, and pray for a beautiful life ahead.

When is Hariyali Teej 2025 and How It Should Be Celebrated?

Hariyali Teej 2025 will be celebrated on Friday, August 1st, 2025. It falls on the Tritiya Tithi (third lunar day) of the Shukla Paksha in the Shravan month, according to the Hindu calendar. This auspicious day comes during the monsoon season and symbolizes love, devotion, greenery, and new beginnings.

How to Celebrate Hariyali Teej

Hariyali Teej is primarily observed by married and unmarried women. Here's how it is traditionally celebrated:

• Nirjala Vrat: Women observe a strict fast (even without water) for the long life and well-being of their husbands or to seek a good life partner.

• Puja and Katha: Goddess Parvati is worshipped on this day as a symbol of feminine power and devotion. Women gather to listen to the Hariyali Teej Vrat Katha, which narrates the story of Shiva and Parvati’s union.

• Green Attire and Solah Shringar: Women dress in vibrant green sarees or suits, wear green bangles, apply mehndi (henna), and adorn themselves with traditional jewelry.

• Decorated Swings (Jhulas): Swings are hung from trees or ceilings and decorated with flowers. Women enjoy swinging while singing folk songs that celebrate love, rain, and tradition.

• Cultural Festivities: In places like Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, fairs, processions, and community gatherings add a festive charm.

Hariyali Teej beautifully blends nature, devotion, and feminine energy, making it one of the most cherished festivals of the monsoon season.

Conclusion

Hariyali Teej is more than a monsoon festival. It is a tribute to the strength of love, the depth of devotion, and the timeless divine bond between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Whether you observe it with a vrat, decorate your home with swings, or simply dress in green to celebrate tradition may this Teej bring blessings, harmony, and happiness into your life.