Kajari Teej 2023: Significance Of This Day For Married Women

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Kajari Teej, also known as Badi Teej or Satudi Teej, is a significant festival celebrated with immense fervor and enthusiasm by women in the Indian states of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Bihar.

The festival holds great significance for married women who observe fasts and offer prayers seeking marital bliss and the longevity of their husbands. This auspicious occasion falls on the Krishna Paksha Tritiya (third day) in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada which typically coincides with August or September. This year, Kajari Teej will be celebrated on 02 September 2023.

Legend

The legend behind the celebration of Kajari Teej revolves around an ancient tale from Mahabharata. It is believed that Draupadi, the wife of Pandavas, was deeply saddened by the hardships faced by her husband during their exile period. Seeing her distress, Lord Krishna narrated a story about Goddess Parvati's deep devotion to Lord Shiva which resulted in them being reunited after many years of separation. Inspired by this tale, Draupadi observed rigorous fasting and unwavering devotion towards her husband just like Goddess Parvati did for Lord Shiva.

Significance

Influenced by this legendary tale from Mahabharata, Hindu married women celebrate Kajari Teej to pray for their husband’s long life and prosperity. Women observe strict fasting without even consuming water till they see the moon at night - a practice symbolizing sacrifice and love towards their husbands similar to that displayed by Draupadi in ancient times. The festival also marks the beginning of monsoon season thereby making it more special as it brings relief from scorching summer heat.

Rituals And Celebrations

On this day, women dress up beautifully in traditional attire preferably green-colored sarees symbolizing fertility and abundance. They apply henna on their hands & feet while singing folk songs related to rain & harvest called 'kajris'. Ritualistic worship includes offering prayers to the neem tree considered sacred in Indian culture along with clay idols representing Lord Shiva & Goddess Parvati decorated under it. Swings are hung on trees where ladies enjoy swinging while singing songs signifying the joyous arrival of monsoon.