Haritalika Teej

Teej is the great festival of Nepali Hindu women, celebrated in the monsoon month of Bhadra. It honours the goddess Parvati, who, according to legend, fasted and meditated for years until Shiva accepted her as his wife.

Dar and the fast

The celebration begins the day before with dar khane din, when women gather at their parents' homes or with friends for a rich feast. The next day, the main day of Teej, many women keep a strict fast — some without even water — praying for the long life of their husbands, or, if unmarried, for a good husband. Increasingly, women also celebrate simply for their own health and friendship.

Songs and dances

Dressed in red saris, green bead necklaces (pote) and bangles, women gather at Shiva temples, singing Teej songs and dancing. Traditional songs speak of women's lives, hardships and hopes, and in recent decades many new Teej songs comment on social issues and politics.

Near Sanothimi

Pashupatinath in Kathmandu draws the largest crowds, but temples closer to Sanothimi — Doleshwor Mahadev, Kailashnath Mahadev at Sanga and local Shiva shrines — are also full of colour on Teej. The festival continues with Rishi Panchami two days later.

Tips

Roads to major Shiva temples are crowded on Teej. Be respectful when photographing, and ask permission before taking close-up pictures.