About teej in Nepal Professional

Teej is a popular Hindu festival celebrated primarily by women in Nepal, as well as in some parts of India. It is a festival that holds great cultural and religious significance and is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Teej is celebrated with enthusiasm and fervor, and it typically falls in the month of Bhadra (August to September) in the Nepali calendar. There are three main types of Teej celebrated in Nepal:

1. Hartalika Teej: This is celebrated during the Shukla Paksha Tritiya (the third day of the bright fortnight) of the Bhadra month. Women fast during this day and immerse themselves in prayers to seek blessings for marital bliss and the well-being of their husbands and families.

2. Rishi Panchami: This falls on the day immediately after Hartalika Teej. It is dedicated to paying homage to the Sapta Rishis (Seven Sages) and is observed as a day of purification. Women perform rituals and take a holy bath in the rivers or ponds.

3. Teej (Teej Purnima): This is the most widely celebrated Teej festival in Nepal. It takes place on the Purnima (full moon day) of the Bhadra month. Women dress in red and green attire, fast without consuming food or water, and engage in various cultural activities such as singing, dancing, and swinging on decorated swings known as "jhulas." These activities are accompanied by traditional songs and music. Married women visit their parental homes to celebrate with their families, while unmarried women celebrate with their friends.

Key elements of Teej celebrations in Nepal include:

Fasting: Women fast during Teej as a form of devotion and to seek the long life and prosperity of their husbands. They break their fast only after sighting the moon.

Swinging: Swings are an integral part of Teej celebrations. Women, especially young girls, enjoy swinging on beautifully decorated swings that are set up in public places and homes.

Music and Dance: Traditional songs and dances are performed during the celebrations. Women sing folk songs known as "Teej geet" and dance to the beats of traditional instruments.

Mehndi (Henna): Applying intricate mehndi designs on hands and feet is a common practice among women during Teej.

Offerings: Women make offerings of fruits, sweets, and other items to the deities, seeking their blessings for a happy and prosperous life.

Teej is not only a religious festival but also a cultural celebration that promotes sisterhood and unity among women. It is a time for women to dress up in their finest attire, showcase their artistic skills, and strengthen their bonds with friends and family. The festival reflects the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Nepal and is an occasion for joy and merriment.