Mumbai: Hartalika Teej is one of the most spiritually significant fasts observed by Hindu women, especially in North India. Celebrated on the Tritiya tithi (third day) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada (August–September), this Teej festival is devoted to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. In 2025, Hartalika Teej falls on Tuesday, 26 August. On this sacred day, married women and unmarried girls undertake a day-long nirjala (waterless) fast and pray for marital bliss, a suitable life partner, and overall well-being.
According to tradition, the fast is observed with great devotion, particularly by women in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. The festival includes rituals such as creating temporary idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati from river sand or clay, offering prayers, listening to the Hartalika Teej katha (story), and adorning oneself in new clothes. It symbolises the divine union of Shiva and Parvati and is seen as a powerful spiritual commitment of love, patience, and devotion.
Hartalika Teej 2025 Date and Puja Muhurat
Date: Tuesday, 26 August 2025
Puja Timing: 5:56 AM to 8:31 AM (Total duration: 2 hours 35 minutes)
Best Time to Perform Puja: Early morning is considered most auspicious. However, if morning rituals cannot be done, the prayers can also be offered during Pradosh Kaal (early evening hours).
What Does Hartalika Teej Mean?
The word Hartalika is a combination of two Sanskrit words—Harat (abduction) and Aalika (female friend). According to legend, Goddess Parvati’s friends abducted her and took her to a dense forest to prevent her unwanted marriage to Lord Vishnu, as decided by her father. Parvati’s true desire was to marry Lord Shiva, and after severe penance, her devotion was rewarded when Shiva accepted her as his wife. This divine tale forms the core of the Hartalika Teej fast.
Hartalika Teej Vrat Rituals
Women wear new and colourful clothes, often green or red sarees, symbolising fertility and prosperity.
They worship temporary idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati made from sand or clay.
The Hartalika Vrat Katha (the sacred story) is recited or heard in groups.
The fast is observed without water, showcasing the devotee’s intense dedication and love.
Other Teej Festivals in the Hindu Calendar
The months of Shravan (Sawan) and Bhadrapada are known for three major Teej festivals:
Hariyali Teej
Kajari Teej
Hartalika Teej is celebrated a month after Hariyali Teej.
Each Teej carries its own significance but shares a common theme of honouring the marital bond and invoking divine blessings for a harmonious family life.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not endorse or validate these claims.)