Kathmandu: Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav, National Assembly Chairman Narayan Prasad Dahal, House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Indira Rana, and National Assembly Vice Chairperson Bimala Ghimire have extended Teej greetings to all Nepali sisters on the occasion of the Teej festival. Vice President Yadav has expressed confidence that the Teej festival would help maintain social harmony and safeguard cultural identity while strengthening family bonds.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the festival of ‘Teej’, also known as ‘Haritalika’, is being observed by all Nepalis, especially women, throughout the country today. This festival falls on the third day of the waxing moon of the Nepali month of Bhadra as per the lunar calendar. Vice President Yadav stated that this festival symbolizes familial devotion and leads people to unity, tolerance, and mutual harmony. He also emphasized the festival’s cultural diversity and the tradition of women expressing their sentiments through traditional songs.
Vice President Yadav extended greetings for the Chaurchan (Chakchana) festival and Ganesh Chauthi, highlighting the importance of passing religious and cultural heritages to the new generation. Celebrated by Hindu devotees in some Tarai-Madhes districts on Bhadra Shukla Chauthi, the Chaurchan festival involves the worship of the lord Moon with offerings shared among family members.
Similarly, National Assembly Chairman Dahal expressed confidence that Teej would inspire women towards rights, empowerment, and equality, strengthening family and social relations. He described it as a festival to celebrate and share happiness and memories. Dahal urged observing Teej for interactions, debates, and advocacy for an equitable society.
House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Rana described Teej as a moment to voice gender equality and women’s rights. She stated that the festival sends a message to end inequalities, including gender and caste-based discrimination.
National Assembly Vice Chairperson Ghimire emphasized safeguarding the cultural importance of Teej and ending profligacy. She extended best wishes for building an equitable society by ending discrimination.
The festival’s revelers, mostly women, observe a fast wishing for their spouse’s longevity and prosperity. The three-day festivity begins with ‘Dar’ on the second day of Bhadra, marked by fasting and cultural programs. Women enjoy ‘Dar’ a day before Teej and fast the next day, taking ritual baths and offering worship. The festivity concludes after worshiping the legendary ‘Saptarishi’.
This unique festival celebrates sisterhood, with sisters gathering at their natal homes for dancing and singing. Married women adorn themselves in red saris, bangles, and ornaments, while both married and unmarried women perform pooja and fast for a happy conjugal life. Shiva temples, including Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, have seen many women devotees today.