Vrat Katha · Goddess Parvati & Lord Shiva
Hartalika Teej Vrat Katha
Hartalika Teej is a strict fast kept by women — married for their husbands, unmarried for a good husband — recalling Parvati's severe penance to win Shiva. The name comes from her friend who "abducted" (harat) her to the forest so she could pursue her own vow.
When It Is Kept
On the Tritiya of Shukla Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada.
The Story
Parvati, daughter of the mountain-king Himavan, had set her heart on Lord Shiva from childhood. But her father, wishing a grander match, arranged to give her hand to Lord Vishnu instead.
Distraught, Parvati confided in her dear friend, who understood her resolve. To save her from a marriage she did not want, the friend led her away into the forest — this "carrying off" gives the vrat its name, Hartalika.
In a cave by the river, Parvati fashioned a Shivalinga of sand and kept a rigorous fast, without food or even water, absorbed in devotion and penance for Shiva.
Pleased by the depth of her austerity, Lord Shiva appeared and accepted her as his own, promising to be her husband. Her father, seeing her unwavering devotion, gave his blessing, and the two were united.
A devotional retelling of the traditional legend in our own words.
The Meaning
True devotion and a firm resolve, held even against pressure, are honoured in the end. The vrat celebrates the union of Shiva and Parvati and the power of a sincere vow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hartalika Teej Vrat Katha about?
Hartalika Teej is a strict fast kept by women — married for their husbands, unmarried for a good husband — recalling Parvati's severe penance to win Shiva. The name comes from her friend who "abducted" (harat) her to the forest so she could pursue her own vow.
When is the Hartalika Teej Vrat kept?
On the Tritiya of Shukla Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada.
What is the moral of the Hartalika Teej Vrat Katha?
True devotion and a firm resolve, held even against pressure, are honoured in the end. The vrat celebrates the union of Shiva and Parvati and the power of a sincere vow.