The Teej Festival is a joyous celebration that is predominantly observed by women in Nepal, although it is also celebrated in various parts of Northern India. The festival is centred around the divine couple of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva and is celebrated with great enthusiasm in order to commemorate their union and seek blessings for a happy married life. The festival holds significant cultural and religious significance for the people of Nepal and Northern India.
Who attends the festival?
The Nepali festival commences with a celebratory feast that brings both married and unmarried women together. The women dress in their finest red saris, adorn themselves with jewellery and decorations in their hair, and apply beautiful makeup. They spend the evening socializing, dancing, and singing. However, at midnight, the women must begin their fast, which lasts for the entirety of the second day of the festival.
What happens at the festival?
The festival is participated by both married and unmarried women who fast with the belief that it will bring them blessings from God. Married women hope to have a long and peaceful marriage while unmarried women hope to find a good husband in the future. On the second day of the festival, women from all around make their way to the famous Shiva temple known as Pashupatinath Temple located in Kathmandu. This temple is one of the largest gatherings in Nepal during the festival.
The Teej festival is celebrated at a temple where women dress in red saris and adorn themselves with body decorations. They offer flowers, food, and coins to Parvati and Lord Shiva as a form of devotion. The final day of the festival involves a ritual where women pray and bathe in red mud, which is considered to be a purification process.
The Pashupatinath Temple celebration on the second day was a vibrant event, with the area adorned by women wearing red saris. The festive atmosphere was further accentuated by the presence of small food and flower stands, where women purchased offerings for their prayers.
At the entrance and main gathering area outside the temple gates, a significant number of individuals were sitting and requesting food and money.
On one corner of the grounds, there was a bus that had been converted into a portable toilet unit. Unfortunately, it was leaking and causing a mess along the main path. Additionally, there were cows wandering around the area where the women were gathered.
At the event, authorities took precautions to ensure the safety of attendees by setting up medical facilities, including large tents and medical personnel. The high temperatures and humidity posed a risk of dehydration and dizziness, which led to several incidents of fainting. Fortunately, there were younger boys who were ready to assist and quickly brought those affected to the medical tents for immediate attention.
The festival was a unique experience for me as it differed from any other gatherings I had been to before. Interestingly, I did not come across any other foreigners during the festival. As a result, I wandered around alone, feeling a bit out of place. I also questioned whether I was allowed to attend the festival since I was not wearing a red sari and was carrying and drinking water throughout the day due to the hot weather. It was worth noting that everyone else attending the festival was on a food and water fast.
I had the opportunity to attend a unique festival in a foreign country, held annually at a temple that was previously unknown to me. The festival was attended by a large and enthusiastic group of people who were dedicated to the event. This was truly an unforgettable experience that I will cherish for a lifetime.
Overall, the Teej Festival is an extraordinary celebration that brings together women from all walks of life to celebrate and seek blessings for a happy and prosperous future. The festival provides a unique insight into the cultural and religious beliefs of Nepal, and it is an opportunity to witness the devotion and dedication of its people.
If you are planning to visit Kathmandu during this time, make sure to add the Teej Festival to your itinerary. It is a rare opportunity to experience something truly authentic and unforgettable. You can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with music, dance, food, and devotion. Remember to respect local customs by dressing appropriately and participating in the festivities with an open mind.
In conclusion, Kathmandu is a city full of culture and traditions that are worth exploring. The Teej Festival is just one of the many events that take place throughout the year. Whether you are looking for adventure or simply want to immerse yourself in Nepalese culture, Kathmandu has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with excitement, wonder, and discovery!
