Every year, when the monsoon turns the earth green and the air begins to carry the fragrance of wet soil, women across many parts of India celebrate Hariyali Teej with songs, swings, mehendi, prayers and fasting. But behind the colours and celebrations lies a much deeper story. It is the story of Maa Parvati, whose devotion to Lord Shiva was so unwavering that she was willing to leave behind comfort, luxury and even the security of her royal home to follow the path of tapasya

There is something magical about Sawan. The earth turns green, the clouds gather in the sky, and the sound of rain seems to bring a quiet sense of renewal. It is during this beautiful monsoon season that Hariyali Teej is celebrated—a festival closely associated with Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva, devotion and marital harmony. For many women, Hariyali Teej is more than a day of fasting. It is a time to pray, dress in traditional colours, apply mehendi, meet loved ones and rememb