Teej is one of several Hindu festivals which falls during the Hindu month of Shravana or during Bhadrpada – or between July and September on the Gregorian calendar. It is a festival in which women fast and pray to both Shiva and the Goddess Parvati in order to receive blessings for their marriage. There are 3 different types of Teej: Hariyali Teej, Kajari Teej and Haritalika Teej.

History of Teej

The name of this festival is derived from a little crimson insect that often comes out of the ground during the monsoon season and is called a Teej. However, the reason for why this holiday is celebrated is derived from Hindu mythology. It is believed that the Goddess Parvati went to the home of Lord Shiva and thereby marking the union between a man and his wife. According to the myth, Parvati had to fast for over a 100 years to prove her deep love and unconditional devotion to Lord Shiva before he would accept her as his wife. In another myth, it is said that she had to die and be reborn 108 times before she was allowed to become Shiva’s wife.

Today, Teej is an important festival for women for two reasons. The first reason is because it celebrates a wife’s love and devotion for her husband and is symbolized by the union of Lord Shiva and the Goddess Parvati. The second reason is because it brings in the rainy season – which gives a much needed break to those who have been sweltering under the summer heat.

Teej Customs & Celebrations

Teej is a festival which isn’t celebrated all throughout India. In fact, it is mainly only celebrated in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Bihar, Rajasthan and in Nepal. In Rajasthan, it is celebrated with a fair called the Monsoon Festival or Sawan Mela. In Nepal, it is celebrated with a large festival and is very important in that area.

Women who celebrate this holiday will fast and they will also wear colorful clothing. In fact, color is an important component of most of the Teej festivals and that can be seen with the various colors of yellow, red, blue and green that can be seen at them.