The holy month of Sawan, also known as Shravan, is in full swing, and devotees across the world are celebrating this auspicious period dedicated to Lord Shiva in their own unique ways. One of the most vibrant festivals observed during Sawan is Hariyali Teej, celebrated with great enthusiasm by women, especially married women. But do you know the significance of Sindhara, why Ghewar is synonymous with the festival, or what Teej truly symbolises? If not, scroll on to find out!
Significance Of Hariyali Teej In Sawan
The word ‘Hariyali‘ translates to greenery, symbolising the lush landscapes brought by the monsoon, while ‘Teej‘ refers to the third day of the lunar fortnight. Celebrated on the third day of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Sawan, Hariyali Teej usually falls in July or August and is one of the three Teej festivals observed in India, the other two being Kajari Teej and Hartalika Teej.
This festival, famous for its colourful attire, flower-decked swings, mehendi, music and festive food, has its origins in one of the most loved love stories of Hindu mythology, that of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
According to Hindu beliefs, Goddess Parvati wanted to marry Lord Shiva, but it was not an easy task for her to win his heart. Lord Shiva was in deep meditation, away from worldliness and did not know about Parvati’s devotion. Parvati was firm in making him her husband and renounced the comforts of palace life and spent years in intense penance. She was a forest dweller, fasting, suffering heat and rain and weather, but never not-believing or not-trying.
Her unwavering devotion eventually moved Lord Shiva, who accepted her as his consort. Their union came to symbolise unconditional love, patience, perseverance and unwavering faith. Hariyali Teej commemorates this divine reunion of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
The festival is therefore considered a celebration of love, devotion and marital bliss. On this day, married women observe a fast and pray for the long life, well-being and prosperity of their husbands, while many unmarried women also seek the blessings of Goddess Parvati for a loving and compatible life partner. Beyond its religious significance, Hariyali Teej is a reminder of faith, resilience and the enduring power of devotion.
Also Read: Sawan 2026: 5 Temples To Visit In India To Seek Lord Shiva’s Blessings
Why Is Ghewar Such A Big Part Of This Festival?
The colour green holds deep symbolic importance during Hariyali Teej because it represents the monsoon, fertility, prosperity, new beginnings and the abundance of nature. Besides the petrichor, the most common fragrance in the air is that of ghewar!
But have you ever wondered why ghewar suddenly seems to be everywhere during Teej? While the honeycomb-shaped dessert is a beloved Rajasthani delicacy, its connection to the festival goes beyond tradition. According to The Times of India, ghewar also holds significance in Ayurveda.
During the monsoon, seasonal changes are believed to aggravate the Vata and Pitta doshas, often leading to acidity, digestive discomfort and restlessness. Made with generous amounts of ghee, Ghewar is traditionally considered to have a cooling and nourishing effect, helping balance these doshas and providing relief from within.
What Is Sindhara?
One of the most cherished traditions associated with Hariyali Teej is Sindhara. Celebrated especially in Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, Punjab and parts of Uttar Pradesh, Sindhara is a pre-Teej custom where a married woman’s parents send her a beautifully arranged hamper filled with festive gifts as a token of love and blessings.
A traditional Sindhara usually includes ghewar and other festive sweets, green bangles symbolising prosperity and marital bliss, mehendi cones, green sarees or suits, shringar items such as bindis, jewellery and bangles, along with seasonal fruits, dry fruits and other gifts.
Beyond the gifts, Sindhara holds deep emotional significance. It symbolises a daughter’s enduring bond with her parental home even after marriage and reflects her parents’ wishes for her happiness, prosperity and a long, fulfilling married life. For many families, receiving Sindhara is one of the most-awaited and heartwarming moments of the Teej celebrations.
Also Read: Sawan: Here Is A List Of Foods You Can Eat And Avoid During Sawan Somwar Fasts
Let us know in the comments how you celebrate Teej!
Cover Image Courtesy: X/prokerala
FAQs
When is Hariyali Teej in 2026?
Hariyali Teej will be celebrated on August 15, 2026, during the holy month of Shravan (Sawan).
Why is Hariyali Teej celebrated?
Hariyali Teej commemorates the divine reunion of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It symbolises love, devotion, faith and marital bliss.
Why do women wear green on Teej?
Green symbolises nature, prosperity, fertility, renewal and marital bliss. Since Hariyali Teej coincides with the monsoon, women traditionally wear green outfits, bangles and mehendi to celebrate the season's lush greenery.
