Hariyali Teej, a day graced with vibrant festivities, commemorates the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, affectionately known as Teej Mata. For women, this day holds deep significance as they pray for the prosperity of their families and for the bliss of their married lives. "Hariyali," the term that refers to lush greenery, resonates with the very essence of the festival. It signifies the season when Indian farmers sow the seeds of future harvests, welcoming the monsoon rains. That's why green is the colour of the festival.
Also Read: Hariyali Teej 2023: Order These 5 Snacks Post-Fasting And Get Up To 10% Rewards
Hariyali Teej 2023: Date And Timings
Hariyali Teej on Saturday, August 19, 2023
Tritiya Tithi Begins - 08:01 PM on Aug 18, 2023
Tritiya Tithi Ends - 10:19 PM on Aug 19, 2023
(Source: drikpanchang.com)
Hariyali Teej 2023: Customs and Traditions
Hariyali Teej is celebrated by women with much enthusiasm. Women wear new attire, favouring shades of green, symbolic of the festival's theme. Adorning wrists with green bangles and hands with intricate mehndi designs, they uplift the vibrant spirit of the day. On swaying swings, they gather to share timeless stories of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati along with traditional Teej songs and dance. As a ritual, married women their parents' homes, where they are showered with affection and receive "Sindhara" - a mix of sweets, bangles, and gifts. Some women also fast on the day and break it in the evening with traditional Indian foods.
Ghevar is an important part of Teej festivities.
Photo Credit: iStock
Flavours of Hariyali Teej 2023: 5 Traditional Recipes For The Festive Feast
1. Ghevar:
Ghevar is exchanged between families and gifted to women on this day. This disc-shaped delicacy, resembling a honeycomb, is layered with cream and nuts. Many local sweet shops sell this popular Teej-special sweet but if you wish to make it at home, we have the recipe for you. Click here.
2. Mathri:
As the sun sets on fasting hours, women choose mathri to break their fast. These crispy treats with a sprinkle of ajwain are perfect to indulge the growling stomach. Click here to see the recipe.
3. Anarsa Goli
Anarsa is a deep-fried snack that echoes the traditions of Teej. Crafted from soaked and ground rice, mixed with the sweetness of sugar, milk (or curd), and sesame seeds, Anarsa beckons with its irresistible crispy allure. Click here for the recipe.
4. Poori
Poori is always a part of Indian festivities, Teej as well. The fried, puffed bread goes as well with spicy aloo curry or with sweet kheer. Click here to see how to make the perfect poori at home.
5. Kheer
Be it rice kheer or vermicelli kheer, the Indian dessert is a must on the Teej feast. If you pair it with poori, you get to enjoy a heavenly meal to satiate your hunger. Click here for the recipe for vermicelli kheer. Want to stick to good old rice kheer? We have the recipe for this too.
Happy Teej 2023!