Teejri - A fast observed by Hindu Women

Teejri Teejri is a yearly practice to honor the moon wherein wives perform a day-long fast to honor their husbands. They wait until the end of the day when they have seen the full moon and then their husband's face before eating. Maiden (unmarried women) also perform this with the belief that they will get good husband.
The practice of Teejri "emphasizes the patriarchal values of Charity and devotion of the wife to the husband and his welfare in the face of all odds. The reward for these attitudes is the good health and longevity of a loving and devoted husband and the avoidance of the inauspicious state of widowhood" (Thapan, 189).

When it falls - It falls on the third day of the moonlit fortnight of the month of Shravan (August-September).

Legends - According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Parvati was in love with Lord Shiva. Being an ascetic however, Lord Shiva was not aware of her. Goddess Parvati performed penance on the Himalayas for many years before Lord Shiva finally noticed her. Realizing the depth of her love and devotion, Lord Shiva agreed to marry Goddess Parvati. Thus, it is also dedicated to Goddess Parvati and commemorates the day when she was united with Lord Shiva after a penance of a hundred years - making them a symbol of an ideal marriage. It is believed that invocation of Goddess Parvati's blessings on this day results in continued marital bliss.

Rituals - On this day, Married women do A Nirjala Vrat (fast without even a drop of water). It is the most important and difficult fast observed by married Hindu women. It begins before sunrise. No food or water can be taken after sunrise. Some Indian sweets and sugared rose water can be taken after rituals of the day have been performed, which usually takes place around 7pm. At night when the moon appears, women break their fast completely after offering water and prayers to the moon.

Teejri Ji Katha (story) - It is very important to listen the Teejri Ji Katha by the elderly woman to complete the ceromony. If there is no eldery woman around, one can read it by herself. To view or print Teejri Katha, please click here

Please note - Pregnant and sick women are advised not to keep the fast but if they do it is advisable to consult a doctor. Many pregnant/sick women go on a diet of milk and fruits and fulfill their nutritional requirements.

[Back to top]