Kajari Teej 2023: What Rituals & Customs Contribute to the Festive Spirit?
By: Future Point | 01-Sep-2023
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As the monsoon raindrops dance on the leaves and the Earth wears a lush green cloak, the heart of India resonates with the enchanting melody of Kajari Teej. A festival that celebrates the beauty of nature, fertility, and the sacred relationship between husband and wife, Kajari Teej holds a special place in the hearts of Hindus, especially in northern India. In 2023, Kajari Teej arrives to infuse joy and unity once again, beckoning devotees to partake in its rituals and festivities.
Understanding Kajari Teej 2023
What is Kajari Teej?
Kajari Teej is one of the most popular festivals among Hindu women on which they offer their heartfelt prayers to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and seek the blessings of the Divine Couple for the well being of their husbands. This festival is also referred to as Badi Teej. Kajri Teej as per the Hindu Lunar Calendar occurs on the ‘Tritiya Tithi’ (third date) in the ‘Krishna Paksha’ (Waning Phase of the Moon) in the month of Bhadrapada.
The Essence of Fertility and Harvest
Kajari Teej is closely associated with the agricultural rhythm of India. As crops begin to ripen, women express their gratitude for the bountiful harvest and pray for a prosperous season ahead. The festival showcases the deep connection between nature, fertility, and human life.
What is the Date as well as Tithi Timings for Kajari Teej 2023?
Kajari Teej 2023 will be celebrated on 2nd September 2023. The auspicious Trithiya Tithi for the celebration has specific timings to mark its significance:
As per the Hindu Panchang, the ‘Tritiya Tithi’ will start on 1st September 2023 at 11:51 PM and will end at 08:50 PM on 2nd September 2023.
This schedule ensures that devotees can engage in the rituals and festivities of Kajari Teej during the specified time frame. It's a time of reverence, celebration, and coming together to honour the bond between nature, fertility, and the sacred relationship between married couples.
Rituals and Traditions
Vibrant Attire and Adornments
On this auspicious day, women adorn themselves in colourful traditional attire, often in shades of green and yellow, symbolizing the lushness of nature and the ripening crops. Intricate mehndi designs on hands and feet add to the festive charm.
Swings and Songs
A key element of Kajari Teej is the joyous tradition of swinging on beautifully decorated swings, often hung from trees. Women, young and old, engage in this activity, singing folk songs that celebrate the arrival of the monsoon.
Prayers to Lord Shiva & Goddess Parvati
Married women worship Lord Shiva & Goddess Parvati with utmost devotion to seek Their blessings which directly ensure a blissful & loving married life. In fact, unmarried girls also worship the Divine Couple to get a loving & caring husband in life. The sacred union of Shiva and Parvati is believed to inspire strong and enduring bonds between husbands and wives.
Fasting and Feasting
This festival involves women observing a ‘Vrat’ or fast during which they do not consume food as well as water which makes it a very tough austerity. The aim of this fast is to please Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati for Their incredibly auspicious blessings. Women end the fast in the evening post sighting or worshipping the Moon. Once the fast is over, delicacies prepared are enjoyed by the women as well as everyone in the family.
Kajari Teej Puja Vidhi: Celebrating Fertility and Devotion
Kajari Teej Puja Vidhi is a sacred ritual that brings together married women to pay homage to Goddess Parvati and seek Her blessings for marital harmony, fertility, and prosperity. This traditional puja holds a special place during the auspicious festival of Kajari Teej. Here's a glimpse into the essential steps of performing the Kajari Teej Puja:
Preparations and Purity: Begin by cleansing yourself and the puja area. Wear traditional attire in shades of green or yellow, symbolizing the lushness of nature and the vibrant festival spirit.
Setting Up the Altar: Create a sacred space adorned with flowers, incense, and a picture or idol of Goddess Parvati along with Lord Shiva. Place the idol or picture on a clean cloth.
Lighting the Lamp: Light a ghee lamp which is known as ‘Diya’ and incense sticks. The flame represents the divine presence and signifies the dispelling of darkness.
Offerings: Offer flowers, fruits, sweets, and traditional items such as vermilion (sindoor), turmeric (haldi), and rice to the Deities. These offerings symbolize devotion and gratitude.
Chanting Mantras: Recite Kajari Teej-specific mantras or stotras dedicated to Goddess Parvati & Lord Shiva. The chanting creates a spiritual ambiance and invites the blessings of the Divine Couple.
Swings and Devotion: During the puja, you can also set up a swing, decorate it with flowers, and place the Deities’ idol or picture on it.
Aarti and Offering: Conclude the puja by performing the aarti, waving a ghee lamp in front of the Deities while singing devotional songs. Express your heartfelt devotion and gratitude.
Distribution of Prasad: After the puja, distribute prasad (blessed offering) among family members and friends, symbolizing the sharing of divine blessings.
Fasting: You can break the fast after the sighting of the Moon, consuming traditional dishes and delicacies along with your family.
Reflection and Blessings: Take a moment to reflect on the significance of the puja and the blessings you've sought. Feel the connection with Goddess Parvati & Lord Shiva.
Kajari Teej Puja Vidhi is a beautiful way to connect with tradition, spirituality, and the natural rhythms of life. Through these rituals, devotees express their reverence, seek blessings, and celebrate the eternal bond of marriage and fertility.
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Celebrations Across Regions
North India
In states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Haryana, Kajari Teej is celebrated with grand processions, cultural performances, and fairs. The celebrations reflect the joyful culture & profound traditions to connect with the divine.
Madhya Pradesh
In Madhya Pradesh, the festival is observed with great enthusiasm. Women carry beautifully decorated wooden idols of Goddess Parvati in processions, accompanied by traditional music and dance.
Chhattisgarh
In Chhattisgarh, the festival takes on a unique form known as "Hareli." It is a time for farmers to seek blessings for a good harvest. Women present miniature swings adorned with harvested crops as a symbol of gratitude.
Conclusion
Kajari Teej 2023 encapsulates the essence of nature's beauty, fertility, and the sacred bond between couples. As the swinging melodies and the vibrant attire fill the air, this festival serves as a reminder to appreciate the interconnectedness of life and the blessings it brings. Through rituals, songs, and celebrations, Kajari Teej invites us to cherish the unity of nature and human relationships, fostering a sense of gratitude and joy that resonates deeply within our hearts.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kajari Teej 2023
Q: When will Kajari Teej be celebrated in 2023?
A: Kajari Teej will be celebrated on 2nd September 2023.
Q: Is it mandatory to observe a ‘Vrat’ or fast on Kajari Teej?
A: Yes, married women traditionally observe a day-long fast to seek blessings for their marital life.
Q: How is Kajari Teej celebrated in North India?
A: In North India, Kajari Teej is celebrated with processions, fairs, cultural performances, and traditional rituals.
Q: What is the significance of the colours green and yellow during Kajari Teej?
A: Green and Yellow symbolize the lushness of nature and the ripening crops, reflecting the festival's connection with fertility and harvest.