Hartalika Teej 2024: A Handbook of Fasting and Devotion for a Happy Marriage

Hartalika Teej is an auspicious festival celebrated by married women for the prosperity and longevity of their husbands, while unmarried women observe it to seek marital bliss and a good partner. This year, the festival will be celebrated with devotion and enthusiasm on 6th September 2024 across various parts of the country. Women traditionally observe a day-long fast as part of the rituals.

Falling on the Shukla Paksha Tritiya of the Bhadrapada month, the festival involves worshiping Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, seeking blessings for a harmonious marriage and progeny. To make the fast successful, it’s essential to understand what to eat and what to avoid.

What to Eat During Hartalika Teej

While the fast traditionally involves abstaining from food and water, there are ways to sustain your energy throughout the day, ensuring you remain healthy and strong.

• Sargi (Pre-Dawn Meal): Before sunrise, consume a nourishing meal to help you through the day. Include curd or milk in your breakfast to keep your body cool and provide protein.

• Dry Fruits: You can have dry fruits such as cashews, pistachios, and seeds. These are light but packed with nutrients to help you stay energized.

• Herbal Teas: Replace regular tea with refreshing alternatives like mint or ginger tea. These are soothing and provide more sustained energy than regular tea.

What to Avoid During the Fast

To ensure the sanctity of the fast, avoid consuming certain foods and beverages:

• Non-Vegetarian Food: Refrain from eating chicken, fish, eggs, or any other non-vegetarian food.

• Garlic and Onion: Avoid these ingredients to maintain the purity of the fast.

• Alcohol: Strictly avoid alcohol or any alcohol-based beverages during fasting.

• Spicy or Oily Food: These can make you thirsty and uncomfortable during the fast, so it's best to avoid them.

Additional Tips for a Healthy Fast

• Stay Hydrated: If you’re not observing a waterless fast, drink plenty of fluids like coconut water or ginger-mint tea to prevent dehydration.

• Pre-plan Your Diet: If you prefer eating lightly during the fast, plan your diet the day before to avoid feeling weak or fatigued.

• Rest and Meditate: Take time to rest, meditate, and focus on your spiritual well-being. Simple yoga or breathing exercises can help calm your mind and maintain energy.

• Listen to Your Body: If you feel dizzy or nauseous, it’s okay to break your fast and nourish your body. Health always comes first.

Puja Time for Hartalika Teej 2024

The auspicious time for performing the Puja on Hartalika Teej is on Friday, 6th September 2024, from 6:02 am to 8:33 am. The Tritiya Tithi starts on 5th September 2024, at 12:21 pm, and ends on 6th September 2024, at 03:01 pm.

By following these guidelines, you can make your Hartalika Teej fasting experience both meaningful and healthy, while embracing the spiritual and cultural significance of this sacred festival.