2 September, 2023, Satur
Kajari Teej, also known as Kajali Teej or Badi Teej, is a Hindu festival primarily celebrated by women in the northern states of India, particularly in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh. It is observed on the third day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, which usually falls in August.
Kajari Teej is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Parvati, seeking her blessings for marital harmony, well-being, and the prosperity of the family. The festival derives its name from the word “kajari,” which refers to the special songs sung during this time that depict the longing and separation of a woman from her beloved.
Here are some key aspects and customs associated with Kajari Teej:
- Worship of Goddess Parvati: Women observe fasts and offer prayers to Goddess Parvati on Kajari Teej. They visit temples dedicated to the goddess, seeking her blessings for a happy and prosperous married life. Married women pray for the well-being of their husbands, while unmarried women seek a suitable life partner.
- Special Puja Rituals: Women perform puja (ritual worship) in the morning, typically after taking a ritual bath. They dress in colorful traditional attire and adorn themselves with jewelry. The puja involves the chanting of mantras and offering fruits, flowers, and sacred items to the deity.
- Swing Ritual: Swinging on beautifully decorated swings is a common practice during Kajari Teej. Women enjoy swinging while singing traditional songs and hymns, expressing their joy and devotion. The swings are often adorned with flowers, colorful fabrics, and decorative elements.
- Kajari Songs and Folklore: Kajari Teej is known for its unique musical tradition. Women sing Kajari songs, which are folk songs expressing emotions of longing, love, and devotion. These songs often narrate the tales of Radha and Lord Krishna, emphasizing their divine love and the pangs of separation.
- Fasting and Vrat: Women observe a day-long fast on Kajari Teej as a mark of devotion and penance. They abstain from consuming food and water until they offer their prayers and break the fast in the evening after sighting the moon. Some women observe Nirjala Vrat, which involves fasting without even drinking water.
- Exchange of Gifts: Kajari Teej is also a time for exchanging gifts among family and friends. Married women receive gifts from their parents, in-laws, and husbands, symbolizing love, blessings, and appreciation.
- Cultural Celebrations: Kajari Teej is celebrated with enthusiasm and cultural fervor. Women participate in various activities, including dancing, singing, and organizing cultural programs showcasing the local art forms and traditions.
Kajari Teej celebrates the beauty of marital relationships, devotion, and the power of women. It is a time for women to express their love, devotion, and longing through rituals, songs, and celebrations. The festival brings communities together, fostering a sense of unity and joy among the participants.
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