Teej is an important Hindu festival celebrated largely in India. The festival of Teej is celebrated to commemorate the blissful union of Goddess Parvati to Lord Shiva. It is extensively celebrated all over India however; the true spirit and charm of the festival can be enjoyed in Jaipur, Rajasthan. In Rajasthan the Teej festival is celebrated by all the women irrespective of their caste and creed.
Teej is predominantly a festival for the women in India and they celebrate the festival with great zeal and devotion. The festival usually falls at the outbreak of the monsoon season i.e. around the month of July-August. It is popularly known by the name of ‘Sawan festival’ of Rajasthan. It is also referred to as the festival of the swings, as on this day beautiful and decorated swings are hung from the branches of the tree.
Teej has its religious and mythological significance in the devotion of Goddess Parvati for her husband Lord Shiva. It is a common belief that on this day Goddess Parvati reunited with Lord Shiva after years of separations. So, on this auspicious day women in India worships Goddess Parvati and pray for the well being of their husbands.
Another significance of the Teej festival lies in the fact that the festival ushers the advent of the monsoon season. Women enjoy this festive occasion by swinging, singing and dancing in the rain.
The prime significance of the festival however, is that it helps in strengthening the bond between married couples.
The rituals and celebrations of the Teej festival is a lively and colorful episode. Women dress up in traditional attire of red, green or yellow and adorn themselves with gold and diamond jewelry. Beautifying their hands by applying impressive designs of mehendi and alta is an important ritual of this festival. Women observe fast on this occasion for the welfare of their husband. The fast has to be kept for duration of 24 hours in which the women can neither eat nor drink. Offerings are made to the Goddess Parvati and according to the custom a traditional lamp is kept burning all night. Married women pay a visit to their parents place and receive gifts from their in-laws and husband.
Processions are also taken out on the day of the Teej festival. The idol of Goddess Parvati, beautifully decorated with dress, jewelry and garlands are bought out. This is accompanied by music and dance that adds life to the whole event. The state of Rajasthan bears a lively and colorful look on this festive occasion of Teej.
Last Updated On: 2011/07/04
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