Celebrating Hartalika Teej: Rituals and Offerings for a Blessed Festival
The revered festival of Hartalika Teej is just two days away. This occasion represents the deep bond between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, highlighting the Goddess's intense devotion. On this day, women partake in a *Nirjala* fast, abstaining from water, to pray for the well-being, longevity, and happiness of their husbands and families.
The rituals associated with Hartalika Teej are distinctive, combining a strict fast with elements that honor nature. Below are the key items needed for the *puja thali* (worship platter) during this festival.
16 Essential Leaves for Worship
**16 Essential Types of Leaves for Worship**
During the rituals, 16 specific leaves, referred to as *patriyan*, are offered to Lord Shiva (Bholenath) and Goddess Parvati. These leaves are used to adorn the *puja mandap* (worship pavilion) and the *phulera* (floral canopy). The collection includes leaves from the Bel tree, Tulsi, Jati, Sevantika, Bamboo, Deodar, Champa, Kaner, Agastya, Bhringraj, Datura, Mango, Ashoka, Betel (Paan), Banana, and Shami. While Bel and Shami leaves are directly offered to Lord Shiva, mango and banana leaves are utilized for decorating the home and worship area.
**Offer These 2 Special Flowers**
It is essential to present *Aak* and *Datura* flowers to Lord Shiva, as they are his favorites; many devotees also include the *Datura* fruit in their rituals. Additionally, offering red hibiscus or red rose flowers to Goddess Parvati is deemed highly auspicious.
Setting Up the Puja Thali
**Preparing the Puja Thali**
For this festival, clay idols of the deities are crafted. Therefore, ensure you have clean, wet black clay or sand to create the idols of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha. Next, gather the necessary items for the *Chowki* (ritual platform): a red or yellow cloth, a *Kalash* (sacred pot), *Roli*, *Kumkum*, rice grains (*Akshat*), sandalwood paste, *Sindoor* (vermilion), *Janeu* (sacred thread), *Mauli* (red sacred thread), incense sticks, a lamp, camphor, a coconut with its husk (*Jata wala nariyal*), betel nuts, betel leaves, seasonal fruits, sweets, and *Panchamrit*.
**Offer *Suhag* items (symbols of marital bliss) to Goddess Parvati**
The worship of Hartalika Teej is incomplete without the *Solah Shringar* (sixteen traditional adornments). Be sure to acquire items such as *Sindoor*, a red *Bindi*, bangles, *Mehendi* (henna), toe rings, *Kajal* (kohl), a comb, *Alta* (red dye for hands and feet), and a small mirror to present to Goddess Parvati. Offering these items is believed to ensure a joyful married life. There is also a cherished tradition of donating these *Suhag* items to a married woman after the worship.
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