Hartalika Teej Vrat Katha: Why Is Hartalika Teej Celebrated? Know the Complete Story Behind It

Hartalika Teej 2024

Hartalika Teej is a significant festival observed by women across various parts of India, particularly in the northern states. This festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, with women seeking their blessings for marital happiness and the well-being of their spouses.

Hartalika Teej Vrat Katha (Sacred Story)
The story behind Hartalika Teej is rooted in the deep devotion of Goddess Parvati towards Lord Shiva. Parvati, the daughter of King Himavan, desired to marry Lord Shiva. In pursuit of this, she performed intense atonement for many years, undergoing severe hardships. Her father, however, wished her to marry Lord Vishnu. To prevent this, one of Parvati’s close friends took her away to a forest, where she could continue her atonement undisturbed.

Through her unwavering devotion, Parvati’s dedication eventually moved Lord Shiva, and he appeared before her, accepting her as his consort. This event is believed to be the origin of the Hartalika Teej festival, where women celebrate and honour Goddess Parvati’s devotion.

On this day, women perform rituals by making idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati from clay or sand. They observe a strict fast, offer prayers, and narrate the Vrat Katha (sacred story) as part of their worship. The story of Parvati’s determination serves as a symbol of strength and devotion, especially in the context of love and marriage.

Hartalika Teej holds particular importance in northern India. The festival is marked by women worshipping Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati by creating statues from sand or clay. It is a day that celebrates the dedication and determination of Goddess Parvati, whose devotion to Lord Shiva is honoured through this observance. By following the rituals of Hartalika Teej, women pray for a harmonious and prosperous married life, just as Parvati was blessed by Lord Shiva.

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