Why is Hariyali teej celebrated

Why is Hariyali Teej Celebrated? The Story of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati

Hariyali Teej is a very sacred festival of Shravan. This festival is celebrated by women across India with deep devotion as the monsoon rains bring back the life of the earth. At the core of this festival is the classic love story of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and their coming together is celebrated here. But many people celebrate Hariyali Teej every year without knowing the real reason for celebrating it, the mythology behind it and its spiritual meaning. In this article, we will go over the whole story of Hariyali Teej, why it is celebrated, what it symbolises, its rituals and how devotees can celebrate it today with true understanding and devotion.

Short Answer

Hariyali Teej is celebrated to mark the divine reunion of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati after her unwavering penance and devotion. The festival symbolises love, faith, marital harmony, patience and spiritual growth. Devotees observe fasts, perform Shiv-Parvati Puja and seek blessings for a happy, prosperous life.

Quick Facts

What is Hariyali Teej?

Hariyali Teej is a Hindu festival celebrated on the Tritiya of Shukla Paksha in the month of Shravan, signifying the arrival of monsoon greenery. It has much significance as it celebrates the holy relationship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. For a full description of its meaning and history, see our guide:

What is Hariyali Teej? Meaning, History & Spiritual Significance.

Why Is Hariyali Teej Celebrated?

The festival is celebrated to commemorate the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, which was made possible by her penance and devotion for years together. It is a powerful emblem of love and unwavering devotion, and a reminder to devotees that patience and faith are always rewarded. Spiritually, it is the victory of steadfast devotion over adversity, and is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar.

The story of God Shiva and Goddess Parvati

She was born as the daughter of King Himavan and was destined to be devoted to Lord Shiva from her birth. From childhood, she had wanted to marry him, and had spent her whole life trying to win his approval. Her wish appeared distant, so she started a strong tapasya, giving up all worldly comforts and concentrating totally on Shiv. This was the genesis of one of the most popular love stories in Hindu mythology, which culminated in the divine union celebrated today as Hariyali Teej.

Severe Austerity of Goddess Shakthi

Parvati had meditated near Kailash for years under extreme conditions, on little food, and in the harshest weather. But she stood firm, even when it was not clear what the outcome would be. This spiritual practice became the classic example of devotion in the Hindu tradition, inspiring generations of devotees.

Goddess Parvati Accepts Lord Shiva

Lord Shiva tested the resolve of Parvati many times to understand the depth of her devotion. He at last gave way to her constant faith and made her his wife. Since then, their divine marriage has been regarded as the ultimate symbol of Shiv-Shakti, and celebrated as the spiritual foundation of Hariyali Teej.

Did You Know? According to legend, Goddess Parvati performed intense tapasya for many lifetimes before Lord Shiva accepted her as his consort. Hence, Hariyali Teej is an eternal reminder of unshakeable devotion.

Spiritual Importance of Hariyali Teej

Hariyali Teej is a celebration of the union of Shiv-Shakti, of consciousness and energy coming together in perfect harmony. If you want to know why Hariyali Teej is celebrated, the spiritual significance of the festival is based on the values of devotion, patience, and unwavering faith. It signifies the spiritual awakening achieved through love and patience. It calls on the followers to seek internal change and not just external rituals. The festival, much like Parvati herself, teaches us that steady faith is the foundation of true spiritual growth.

Shiva and Shakti symbolism

Shiva is pure consciousness, and Shakti is divine energy and activity. Together they are balance in life – stillness and movement, wisdom and strength. This harmony is believed to be essential for spiritual and worldly fulfilment.

Why do married women observe Hariyali Teej Vrat?

Married women observe the Hariyali Teej Vrat mainly for the health and long life of their husbands, following the example of Goddess Parvati’s devotion. The fast is also observed for family prosperity and continued marital bliss, praying for the same harmony that is present in the union of Shiv-Parvati.

Why do unmarried women observe Hariyali Teej?

Unmarried women celebrate Hariyali Teej by praying to get a husband like Lord Shiva, who is the perfect and most devoted husband. They are encouraged by the patience of Goddess Parvati to seek her blessings through faith, reinforcing the idea that genuine devotion is always rewarded.

Mythology and Rituals of Hariyali Teej

Every Hariyali Teej ritual reflects a part of the tale of Shiv-Parvati. Followers observe a Vrat, mirroring the penance of Parvati, and conduct a Shiv-Parvati Puja to celebrate their union. Mehndi and green ensembles symbolise marital bliss, while jhulas and traditional Teej songs recreate the festive spirit believed to have marked their divine wedding.

Why Do People Wear Green?

Green is prosperity, fertility and the reawakening of nature after the monsoon rains. Hariyali Teej: The colour of this day is green, which represents new beginnings and hope for a flourishing married life, mirroring the greenery that gave the festival its name.

Lessons We Learnt From Lord Shiva And Goddess Parvati

Their story is a timeless lesson of patience in adversity, of unconditional love, loyalty, faithfulness, and commitment for life. These lessons continue to inspire devotees seeking harmony in their own relationships and spiritual lives today.

Relevant Pujas to do on Hariyali Teej

Apart from observing the Vrat, devotees also perform a Shiv-Parvati Puja, Gauri Shankar Puja, Rudrabhishek Puja or a Sawan Special Puja to seek additional blessings. NRIs can also get an Online Shiv-Parvati Puja done so that they can perform genuine rituals from anywhere. These can be easily booked through ePuja by Satvik.

How Devotees can Celebrate Hariyali Teej Today

Those who want to celebrate can visit a temple, perform a Puja at home or book an online Puja if they are unable to travel. Family participation enhances the festive spirit, while NRIs are increasingly celebrating through virtual ceremonies, staying connected to tradition from abroad.

Common Misconceptions of Hariyali Teej

Most people think that Hariyali Teej is only for married women or only celebrated in North India, but its blessings and customs are for unmarried women and communities all over the country. And just like that, it’s not about fasting; it’s about devotion, faith and celebrating divine love.

FAQs:

Q1. What is the story behind the Hariyali Teej festival?  

Ans: It is a celebration of Parvati’s penance and her union with Lord Shiva.

Q2. Why Is Hariyali Teej Celebrated ?

Ans: To celebrate the divine union of Shiv and Parvati.

Q3. How many births did Goddess Parvati take before marrying Lord Shiva?

Ans: Tradition says 108 births.

Q4. Which god is worshipped on Hariyali Teej?

Ans: Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati as a couple.

Q5. What is the significance of Hariyali Teej in Hinduism?

Ans: Devotion, harmony in marriage, union of Shiv-Shakti.

Q6. Why do women fast for Hariyali Teej?

Ans: For the good of their husband and the prosperity of their family.

Q7. Can married women observe Hariyali Teej?

Ans: Yes, pray for a committed life partner.

Conclusion

Hariyali Teej is not just a festival; it is a celebration of unwavering devotion, divine love, patience, and the eternal union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Celebrate with understanding, do a heartfelt Shiv-Parvati Puja, and if you can't go to a temple, join authentic online Vedic rituals through ePuja by Satvik to receive blessings wherever you are.