KATHMANDU, Sept 6: The festival of 'Teej', also known as the 'Haritalika', is being observed by the Nepali Hindus, especially women throughout the country today. 

The festival falls on the dark half of the lunar month that falls in the month of Bhadau in the Lunar calendar. The revelers of this festival, mostly women, observe fast wishing for longevity and a prosperous life for their spouse. 

The three-day festivity begins with 'Dar' on the second day of the fortnight in the month of Bhadra and is marked with fasting and cultural programs the next day. Women rejoice with various delicious dishes known as 'Dar' a day before 'Teej' and fast on the next day as per the tradition.

Women on this day take ritual baths in the morning and offer worship in the evening. They pay homage to Lord Shiva, light oil-fed lamps and spend the night awake.

The festivity comes to an end on the fifth day of the fortnight after worshiping the legendary 'Saptarishi' (seven sages). 

This unique festival of Nepali women is also a celebration of sisterhood as sisters gather at their natal home and indulge in jubilant dancing and singing.

The legend has it that Parbati, the daughter of Himalayas, was on her maiden fast, wishing for the health and the wellbeing of her spouse, Lord Shiva.  Since then the same day has been recognized as the Hartalika Teej.

Married women put on bangles, ‘Pote’ (a necklace made of glass beads), ‘Tilahari’ and ‘Sindur’ (crimson powder) considered the symbols of good luck and dress themselves up in red saris or other red outfits and adorn themselves with different kinds of ornaments.

Both married and unmarried women perform various pooja and observe fasting, praying for fulfillment of their wish for a happy and prosperous conjugal life.

Shiva temples including the Pashupatinath Temple in the capital sees an overwhelming number of women devotees this day.

To mark the occasion, the Government has also announced a public holiday today for women only.

 
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