Teej is a vibrant and deeply spiritual festival celebrated by women across many parts of India, especially in states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh. The festival is often associated with green bangles, colorful lehengas, swings on trees, and the fragrance of henna. But behind this joyful celebration lies a story of immense devotion, love, and strength. At the heart of it all is the worship of Goddess Parvati, the divine consort of Lord Shiva.
You might wonder why Goddess Parvati is so closely associated with Teej. The answer lies in an ancient tale of love, patience, and devotion that forms the very foundation of this festival.
The Story Behind Teej
According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Parvati was born as the daughter of the mountain king, Himavan. She fell deeply in love with Lord Shiva and wanted to marry him. However, Shiva was immersed in meditation and detached from worldly life. Parvati undertook years of rigorous penance to prove her devotion. She gave up all comforts and meditated in forests through harsh weather and hunger.
Seeing her unshakable determination, the gods themselves were moved. Eventually, Lord Shiva acknowledged her love and agreed to marry her. Their union is seen as one of the most powerful and balanced relationships in Hindu mythology.
Teej celebrates this reunion. It honors Parvati’s unwavering love and commitment, making her an inspiration for countless women. Her story teaches that love rooted in faith, patience, and inner strength can move even the universe.
Symbolism of Goddess Parvati on Teej
1. Symbol of Devotion and Love
Parvati is seen as the perfect wife. Her love for Shiva was not about external appearances or wealth, but about spiritual connection and inner harmony. On Teej, women worship her to seek blessings for a happy, peaceful, and spiritually fulfilling married life.
2. Strength and Independence
While Parvati is remembered for her devotion, she is also celebrated for her inner strength. She did not give up when her love was unreturned. She chose the path of self-discipline and prayer. Her story encourages women to believe in their own power and to pursue their goals with patience and courage.
3. Fertility and Nature
Teej is observed during the monsoon season, when the Earth turns lush and green. Parvati, being the daughter of the mountains, is also connected to nature and fertility. Women pray to her for the well-being of their families, healthy children, and prosperity. The green attire and swings are symbolic of nature's fertility and feminine energy.
4. Sacred Union of Shiva and Shakti
The marriage of Shiva and Parvati represents the balance of male and female energies. In spiritual terms, Shiva is pure consciousness, while Parvati or Shakti is energy. Their union represents the wholeness of life. Worshipping Parvati on Teej is also a celebration of this divine balance.
Teej Rituals Connected to Parvati
Women observe Teej fast from sunrise to moonrise, many without even drinking water. The fast is considered a way to connect spiritually with Goddess Parvati and seek her blessings. Married women pray for the health and longevity of their husbands. Unmarried girls observe the fast in hope of finding a good life partner, just as Parvati did.
Clay or metal idols of Parvati and Shiva are worshipped, adorned with flowers, vermillion, and sweets. Folk songs are sung, many of which describe Parvati’s love for Shiva. Women often exchange gifts and apply mehndi, considering it auspicious. The color green is especially significant, as it stands for growth, life, and love.
Why This Matters Even Today
The worship of Parvati is not just a religious ritual. It is a celebration of feminine energy, patience, and power. In a world where relationships can feel fragile and where spiritual balance is often missing, the story of Parvati reminds us of the importance of devotion, resilience, and the quiet strength that lies within every woman.
It also encourages mutual respect in relationships. Just as Parvati pursued spiritual growth, her journey teaches both men and women the value of inner work and shared devotion in any partnership.
Goddess Parvati’s story is not just a myth from ancient texts. It continues to inspire millions of women every year during Teej. Her love, courage, and unwavering faith are timeless lessons in strength and patience. As women dress in green, fast with faith, and swing under cloudy monsoon skies, they carry forward a legacy that is both spiritual and deeply human.
So, when you hear the laughter, the songs, and the stories this Teej, remember that at the heart of it all is a goddess who once waited, who once prayed, and who ultimately became a symbol of love that never gives up.
