Hyderabad: The festival of Teej signifies growth, wealth, and good fortune. It is linked to an ancient story about Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. To gain Lord Shiva’s attention during his meditation in the Himalayas, Goddess Parvati performed a severe penance. Her dedication eventually led to her union with Lord Shiva.
Teej is celebrated over nine days with enthusiasm and traditional rituals in parts of North India, Nepal, and among the Banjaras in the South. The festival is observed differently in these regions, reflecting cultural heritage passed down through generations.
On Tuesday, the community gathers outdoors for a picnic. They place a stone symbolizing Sheetla Bhavani under a tree and worship it. That evening, wheat grains are soaked at the leader’s home. The following evening, the grains are planted in bamboo baskets with manure. These baskets are dedicated to Dandi Merama Mata and Sadguru Shri Shri Sevalal Maharaj. They are hung or placed on a canopy at the leader’s residence, covered with a tent. Two eligible girls act as priestesses for the entire nine-day period.
From that point, women collect water from a nearby well or pond three times daily to nurture the wheat in the baskets until the festival’s end. Each basket is assigned to a girl. This celebration highlights the Banjaras’ deep respect for nature.
