The Teej Summer festival in Delhi is just around the corner. This festival that occurs at the end of July or beginning of August lasts for two days, and is quickly becoming one of India’s most popular. This festival is concurrent with the beginning of the monsoon season. It is a celebration of the rain that will cool the city down after the scorching temperatures of the summer sun. This is a festival that is important for the women of India. Many of the religious rituals are various prayers and meditations meant to ensure the well being and the protection of their husbands. This one festival is the beginning of the entire season of festivals and celebrations.The costuming is truly indicative of all the Delhi luxury, pomp and circumstance that surrounds the activities, the prayers and the dancing. There is a procession that leads through the streets, and is celebrated and participated in with excitement and fervor. And should the rain fall on the days of the festival, there is only more reason to celebrate and the joy of the people becomes even more intense.
The goddess Parvati symbolizes virtue, fertility, and devotion. It is this goddess that is worshipped and celebrated during the Teej. Legend states that Parvati and Lord Shiva were united after many years apart. The prayers are related to the myth, as the women long for the well being of their husbands when they are away. Marital peace, happiness and bliss are prayed for as well. Many of women, married and single, young and old, decorated their hands with henna, in elaborate design. And their very finest of clothes are donned during the two days. Celebrations include the women playing the drums, swinging on ropes, and singing. Women who are married are often times sent gifts by their parents, of clothes or sweet treats. This is the same for women who are engaged. The markets are decorated and the streets are adorned with flowers. This is definitely the perfect time to visit Delhi, as well as the many other cities in India where the festival takes place.
Related posts:
You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 You can leave a response, or trackback.
