Among the important fasts and festivals celebrated and observed by Hindus, Hartalika Teej holds a special place. This fast is observed on the Tritiya Tithi of Shukla Paksha of the Bhadrapada month.
On this day, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are worshipped. Married women observe the fast for the happiness and prosperity of their married life, while unmarried girls keep it in the hope of finding the husband they desire. One of the rituals of Hartalika Teej s making a Shivling out of clay and offering prayers to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
This year, the fast will be observed on 26th August. Hartalika Teej Vrat or fast is kept without food or even water (Nirjala), beginning at sunrise, and is broken the following morning after worshipping Goddess Parvati. For this reason, it is considered one of the most difficult fasts in Hinduism. On this day, women dress up in solah shringar and apply mehndi on their hands to seek the blessings of Goddess Parvati. Interestingly, however, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are not worshipped first on this day. So, who is worshipped before them?
Lord Ganesha Is Worshipped First
For married women and young girls, this fast carries deep significance. The very first prayers on this day are offered to Lord Ganesha, the son of Goddess Parvati. Widely known as Vighnaharta (the remover of obstacles), Lord Ganesha is worshipped first to ensure that no hindrance arises while keeping this rigorous fast. In fact, according to Hindu tradition, no auspicious ceremony begins without invoking Lord Ganesha.
For worshipping Lord Ganesha, ensure that the puja place is clean, and decorate with flowers. Lord Ganesha’s idol is then dressed in new clothes, and offerings of vermilion, modaks, durva grass, and flowers are made. A ghee lamp and incense are lit, followed by the aarti. Devotees then invoke Ganesha’s blessings to complete the fast without obstacles.
Tritiya Tithi timings
The Tritiya Tithi of Shukla Paksha in Bhadrapada begins on 25th August at 12:34 pm and ends on 26th August at 1:54 pm. Since the udaya tithi falls on 26th August, the fast will be observed on that day.