Kajari Teej is a Hindu festival that is celebrated by women in the northern and western regions of India. It is typically celebrated in the month of Bhadrapada, which falls in August or September according to the Gregorian calendar.
Kajari Teej is a Hindu festival that is celebrated by women in the northern and western regions of India. It is typically celebrated in the month of Bhadrapada, which falls in August or September according to the Gregorian calendar. The festival is marked by the worship of the Hindu goddess Parvati, who is believed to be the embodiment of fertility, strength, and power.
On the day of the festival, women dress in colorful clothes and jewelry and observe fasts and prayers. They also participate in various rituals and customs, such as singing and dancing, applying mehndi (henna) on their hands and feet, and exchanging gifts. In some regions, women also visit temples and perform puja (worship) to the goddess.
Kajari Teej is an occasion for women to come together and celebrate their strength, unity, and sisterhood. It is also a time for women to pray for the well-being of their families and for the fulfillment of their desires.
The specific customs and rituals associated with the celebration of Kajari Teej may vary based on regional and personal preferences. In some regions, the festival is also known as Kajali Teej or Kajli Teej.
Food
During the celebration of Kajari Teej, women who are observing fasts typically eat simple, vegetarian meals that are easy to digest. Some of the foods that may be consumed during the festival include:
Fruits: Fruits such as apples, bananas, and watermelons are a good source of hydration and nutrients during the fast.
Milk and milk products: Women who are observing fasts may consume milk and milk products such as yogurt and butter as they are rich in calcium and other nutrients.
Sabudana khichdi: This dish is made from soaked and cooked sabudana (tapioca pearls) and is often consumed during fasts as it is easy to digest and provides energy.
Singhare ke atte ki poori: These deep-fried pooris (flatbreads) are made from water chestnut flour and are a popular choice during fasts.
Peanut chikki: This sweet treat is made from roasted peanuts and jaggery and is a popular snack during the festival.
Coconut water: Coconut water is a refreshing and hydrating drink that is often consumed during fasts.
It is important to note that the specific foods consumed during the celebration of Kajari Teej may vary based on regional and personal preferences. Some women may choose to observe more strict fasts and consume only water, while others may follow more lenient fasts and consume other foods as well.
Attire
During the celebration of Kajari Teej, women typically dress in colorful clothes and jewelry. Some of the traditional dresses worn on this occasion include:
Lehenga choli: This is a three-piece garment that consists of a long, flowing skirt (lehenga), a blouse (choli), and a dupatta (long scarf). Lehenga cholis are often adorned with intricate embroidery, beadwork, and other embellishments and are a popular choice for special occasions such as Kajari Teej.
Saree: A saree is a traditional Indian garment that consists of a long, rectangular piece of cloth that is draped over the body. Sarees are available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and fabrics and are a popular choice for formal occasions.
Salwar kameez: This is a traditional Indian dress that consists of a long tunic (kameez) worn with pants (salwar) and a dupatta. Salwar kameezes are comfortable and easy to wear and are available in a variety of colors and styles.
In addition to traditional dresses, women may also wear jewelry such as bangles, earrings, and necklaces on the day of the festival. The jewelry is often made of gold or silver and is adorned with precious or semi-precious stones.
It is important to note that the specific dresses and jewelry worn during the celebration of Kajari Teej may vary based on regional and personal preferences. Some women may choose to wear more modern or western clothes, while others may opt for more traditional attire.