Hariyali Teej: Celebrating Nature and Devotion

In the vibrant world of Indian festivals, Hariyali Teej stands out as a celebration of lush greenery, divine love, and joyful traditions. Known for its lively festivities and deep-rooted devotion, this festival marks the onset of the monsoon season, when nature bursts into life with vibrant colours. Join us on a delightful journey through the celebrations of Hariyali Teej, where the love story of Shiva and Parvati, the elegant tradition of Sindhara, and the art of mehendi add a magical touch!

Hariyali Teej is celebrated during the Shravana month of the Hindu calendar, usually in July or August, when the monsoon rains have painted the earth in various shades of green. The name "Hariyali" means "greenness," and this festival is a tribute to the abundance and beauty of nature that the rains bring.

At the heart of Hariyali Teej is the devotion to Goddess Parvati and her beloved husband, Lord Shiva. The festival commemorates their divine union, symbolizing love, devotion, and the blessings of marital bliss. Together, Shiva and Parvati are the parents of Lord Ganesha, the beloved elephant-headed deity known for his wisdom and ability to remove obstacles. Their story is a beautiful reminder of the power of love and family.

One of the most enchanting aspects of Hariyali Teej is the colourful attire worn by women. Dressed in vibrant green saris and adorned with sparkling jewellery, they celebrate nature's bounty and the festival’s theme of prosperity. The colour green represents fertility and new beginnings, perfectly capturing the essence of the monsoon season.

A unique and joyful tradition of Hariyali Teej are the traditional swings, known as "jhoolas". They are set up in gardens, temples, and community spaces. Women, often accompanied by their friends and family, joyfully swing back and forth, celebrating the festival with laughter and cheer. The swings, decorated with flowers and greenery, symbolise the playful spirit of the monsoon and the love between Shiva and Parvati.

The day also includes the beautiful tradition of Sindhara, observed during Teej in some regions of India. As a part of this tradition, married women receive thoughtful gifts from their mothers. These gifts, often including clothing, jewellery, and other cherished items, symbolise the mother's heartfelt wishes for her daughter's happiness and continued marital bliss. This tradition adds a personal and loving touch to the celebrations, highlighting the deep bond between mothers and their daughters.

Mehendi, the art of applying intricate henna designs, is another cherished part of the celebrations. Women adorn their hands and feet with beautiful mehendi patterns, which symbolise joy, love, and good fortune. The rich, reddish-brown designs not only enhance their festive look but also add to the overall beauty and grace of the occasion.

The day begins with women visiting temples dedicated to Goddess Parvati. The temples are adorned with fresh flowers, greenery, and vibrant decorations. Women offer prayers, sing devotional songs, and participate in rituals to honour the divine couple. These rituals strengthen their devotion and bring the blessings of the gods into their lives.

Delicious sweets and traditional treats are also an important part of Hariyali Teej. Families come together to prepare and share special dishes such as ghevar, a sweet made from flour and sugar syrup, along with other festive snacks. These treats add to the celebration's charm and bring everyone together in joy and gratitude.

As the day progresses, the festive mood continues with storytelling, songs and dancing. The air is filled with joy and excitement as everyone revels in the spirit of Hariyali Teej, embracing the beauty of nature, the love of Shiva and Parvati, and the warmth of family and community.

Hariyali Teej is a celebration of life, nature, and the divine bond between Shiva and Parvati. It’s a time to embrace the vibrant green of the monsoon, enjoy the fun of swinging, and celebrate the cherished traditions of Sindhara and mehendi.