Kathmandu : 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 Bhadra in the Lunar calendar. The revelers of this festival, mostly women, observe fast wishing for longevity and a prosperous life for their spouse.
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 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.
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.