What is Teej Festival and How is it Celebrated in Nepal?

Nepal is a diverse country known worldwide for its vibrant culture. So it’s no surprise that Nepal celebrates a colourful range of festivals throughout the year. One of these celebrations is the Teej Festival. Teej Festival is an annual Hindu celebration dedicated to the Goddess Parvati. Keep reading to learn more about why and how the Teej Festival is celebrated in Nepal.

Why is the Teej Festival celebrated in Nepal?

Teej Festival is a festival celebrated primarily by Hindu women. It usually takes place in August or early September depending on the lunar calendar. In 2024, Teej Festival will take place on August 7th. This holiday holds both religious and cultural importance for Hindu women. It is a day where many Hindu women fast, pray and seek the blessings of Goddess Parvati. Teej Festival is believed to cleanse the mind, body and soul.

How is Teej Festival celebrated?

Red Clothing

Weeks of preparation are carried out by women and girls in Nepal during the lead up to Teej Festival. This includes preparing clothing for the celebration. One of the most distinctive features of Teej Festival is the red attire. Women wear beautiful red saris, bangles, and other accessories. They were red as it symbolises marital bliss.

Fasting

On Teej day, women fast from food and water until the moon rises. This fast is seen as a way to show their love and commitment to their husbands. It is believed that the sincere observance of this fast will ensure a long and happy married life.

Puja (Worship) and Visiting Temples: 

Temples dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva are popular places to visit during Teej celebrations. Women visit these temples to offer prayers and seek blessings. The main puja involves lighting oil lamps, offering flowers, and performing religious rituals.

Feasting and Reunion: 

As the sun sets and the moon rises, fasting is broken with a grand feast. Families come together to break the fast by enjoying traditional Nepali dishes. These include dishes such as sel roti, puri, and various sweets. 

Dance, Music, and Mehendi: 

Dance and music are at the heart to every Teej celebration. Women come together in friend groups to dance to traditional music. Additionally, applying mehendi (henna) on hands and feet is a common practice during Teej. Beautiful henna designs are created, adding to an already vibrant and colourful celebration.

Teej Festival in Nepal is a beautiful mix of tradition, and celebration. It is a day when women come together to express their love and devotion to Goddess Parvati and to celebrate their relationships. The festival not only deepens cultural roots but also strengthens the bonds of family and community. Teej serves as a vibrant testament to the enduring traditions and the enduring spirit of the people of Nepal. If you want to help loved ones in Nepal stay connected during Teej festival celebration, click below to send them mobile recharge in seconds with Ding.