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Teej 2024: Date and Time, Significance, Celebrations and Rituals, Precautions and Tips and Popular Teej Songs
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Teej is a traditional festival celebrated predominantly by women in India, symbolizing marital bliss, devotion, and the arrival of the monsoon season. This vibrant festival, dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva, is marked by fasting, singing, dancing, and various rituals. Let’s explore the key aspects of Teej 2024, including its date, time, significance, popular songs, precautions, and ways to celebrate.
Hariyali Teej: Observed on August 7, 2024, this festival marks the onset of the monsoon season. The Tritiya Tithi (third day of the lunar fortnight) begins around 7:52 PM on August 6th and ends around 10:05 PM on August 7th.
Kajari Teej: Celebrated in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, Kajari Teej falls in the month of Bhadrapada (August-September).
Hartalika Teej: Celebrated a day before Ganesh Chaturthi in the month of Bhadrapada, Hartalika Teej is observed on September 6, 2024.
Significance of Teej
Teej is a festival of great cultural and religious significance. It commemorates the reunion of Goddess Parvati with Lord Shiva after her long penance. The festival symbolizes the devotion, love, and sacrifice of a wife for her husband. Women observe strict fasts, some even without water, to pray for their husband’s well-being and a happy married life. It is also a celebration of the monsoon’s arrival, with green being a dominant color symbolizing fertility and prosperity.
Celebrations and Rituals
Fasting: Women observe a day-long fast, known as Nirjala Vrat (fast without water), praying for their husband’s longevity and happiness.
Dress and Adornments: Women adorn themselves in vibrant traditional attire, especially green, and wear intricate jewelry. Applying henna (mehndi) on their hands is a popular custom.
Puja and Offerings: Special prayers and rituals are performed, where women worship Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva, offering sweets, fruits, and other items.
Songs and Dances: The festival is incomplete without traditional Teej songs and dances. Women sing and dance to folk songs, celebrating the joyous occasion.
Swings: Decorated swings are set up, and women enjoy swinging as part of the celebrations.
Gifts: On Teej, thoughtful gifts such as traditional sarees, jewelry, beauty products, and wellness items honor and celebrate the women in your life, adding joy and warmth to the festive occasion.
Precautions and Tips
Health Considerations: Since many women observe a strict fast, it’s essential to be mindful of one’s health. If unable to fast without water, consider a light fruit-based diet.
Avoid Negative Thoughts: Keep a positive mindset, refrain from conflicts, and respect elders during the festival.
Safe Celebrations: Ensure safe use of swings and avoid strenuous activities if fasting.
How to Celebrate Teej 2024
Prepare for the Festival: Clean your home and set up a place for the deity’s worship. Decorate with flowers and rangoli.
Dress Up: Wear traditional attire, preferably in green, and adorn yourself with jewelry. Apply mehndi as part of the festive look.
Perform Puja: Gather with family and friends for the Teej puja. Offer prayers to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva, followed by the Teej Katha (storytelling).
Sing and Dance: Enjoy singing traditional Teej songs and dancing. It’s a time to celebrate womanhood and unity.
Swing Joyously: Set up swings and enjoy the cool breeze of the monsoon.
Popular Teej Songs
The festive atmosphere is enhanced with melodious Teej songs. Here are some popular ones to enjoy:
Teej 2024 is a time to celebrate the monsoon’s arrival, cherish marital bliss, and enjoy the company of loved ones. Whether it’s through fasting, singing, dancing, or simply being together, Teej brings joy and a deep sense of cultural pride. Enjoy the festivities with love, devotion, and happiness!
