Bhadrapada Shukla Tritiya
Hartalika Teej
Hartalika Teej is a rigorous vrat kept by women, married for their husbands’ wellbeing and unmarried for a good husband, recalling Parvati’s austerities to win Shiva. It falls on the third day of bright Bhadrapada.
2026
Monday, 14 September 2026
2027
Friday, 3 September 2027
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Significance
The name recalls how Parvati’s friend “abducted” (harat) her to the forest so she could pursue her penance for Shiva rather than be married to another. It is the model of devotion rewarded.
How Hartalika Teej is observed
Women keep a waterless, often sleepless fast, fashion Shiva and Parvati from clay or sand and worship them through the night with songs and the Teej katha.
FAQ
How strict is the Hartalika Teej fast?
Very. It is traditionally kept nirjala (without water) and through the night, one of the most austere women’s vrats.
Who keeps it and why?
Married women for their husbands’ long life and unmarried women for a good husband, following Parvati’s example.
What does “Hartalika” mean?
From harat (abduction) and aalika (friend): Parvati’s friend spirited her away so she could do penance for Shiva.
Around the same season
Plan around Hartalika Teej
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