Teej : September 11

Teej is a Hindu married woman’s day for her man.  Married and unmarried women crowd Pashupatinath and other temples of lord shiva. Women dressed in beautiful red saris with shining glass beads (Pote), singing and dancing is a common sight during this festival as women recall Parbati’s devotion to her husband Shiva. It is believed that married women fast on this day for longivity of their husbands and will see the bond of love grow. Unmarried women fast on this day to have good looking husbands.

Married women visit their fathers’ homes. All daughters and sisters receive gifts from their male kin, and an elaborate feast is prepared for them. It’s a loud and cheerful celebration until late at night, when strict fasting begins. The blessings of Shiva and Parbati ensure that family life will be joyous for all.