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The arrival of monsoons in India brings in a lot of
enthusiasm and rejuvenation in the lives of the people, which gets
reflected in the whole environment. Teej is celebrated on 'Sawan Sudi' - 3
(Jul-Aug). It is celebrated to welcome 'Sawan' or the rainy season. After
first showers of Sawan, a small red insect called 'Teej' in Haryana comes
out from soil.
Swings are set up in the open courtyards. Girls apply henna on their hands
and feet and are excused from household chores on this day.
The Legend
The festival of Teej welcomes the monsoon. This is the time when the
oppressive heat of the summer is cooled by the monsoon showers. The
festival also marks the auspicious event when Parvati, the consort of Lord
Shiva won him over after a long penance. In rural lands and especially in
Haryana and Rajasthan
, the images of the Goddess Parvati are taken out in large processions.
The Festivity
On Teej, girls receive new clothes from their parents and the mother
sends a 'baya' or gift. Puja is performed in the morning. The 'baya'
consisting of a variety of foodstuff, is placed on a 'thali' at the place
of worship where a 'chowk' (square) has been decorated, an idol or a
picture of Parvati is installed. The evenings are set aside for singing
and dancing.
Place Of Festive Activity
The Myna Tourist Complex in
Rohtak (74 kms from Delhi) comes alive during
the festival of Teej. Swings are fashioned on boughs of trees and cultural
programmes present the rich folk songs of the state. Feats are organised
all over the state.