The auspicious festival of Hartalika Teej is now just two days away. This fast symbolizes the unwavering love between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, as well as the Goddess's rigorous penance. It is believed that on this day, women observe a *Nirjala* fast (abstaining even from water) to pray for their husbands' longevity, good health, and a happy family life.

The worship rituals of Hartalika Teej are unique; the festival involves not only a strict fast but also elements closely connected to nature. Here is a look at the essential items required in the *puja thali* (worship platter) for this occasion.

**16 Essential Types of Leaves for Worship**
The ritual involves offering 16 specific types of leaves—known as *patriyan*—to Lord Shiva (Bholenath) and Goddess Parvati. These leaves are used to decorate the *puja mandap* (worship pavilion) and the *phulera* (floral canopy). The list includes leaves from the Bel tree, Tulsi, Jati, Sevantika, Bamboo, Deodar, Champa, Kaner, Agastya, Bhringraj, Datura, Mango, Ashoka, Betel (Paan), Banana, and Shami. While Bel and Shami leaves are offered directly to Lord Shiva, mango and banana leaves are used to decorate the home and the worship area.

**Offer These 2 Special Flowers**
Be sure to offer *Aak* and *Datura* flowers to Lord Shiva, as these are his favorites; many devotees also include the *Datura* fruit in the worship rituals. Meanwhile, offering red hibiscus or red rose flowers to Goddess Parvati is considered highly auspicious.

**Preparing the Puja Thali**
Clay idols of the deities are created for this festival. Therefore, arrange for clean, wet black clay or sand. These materials are used to craft the idols of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha. Next, gather the items needed to set up the *Chowki* (ritual platform): a red or yellow cloth, a *Kalash* (sacred pot), *Roli*, *Kumkum*, rice grains (*Akshat*), sandalwood paste, *Sindoor* (vermilion), *Janeu* (sacred thread), *Mauli* (red sacred thread), incense sticks, a lamp, camphor, a coconut with its husk (*Jata wala nariyal*), betel nuts, betel leaves, seasonal fruits, sweets, and *Panchamrit*.

**Offer *Suhag* items (symbols of marital bliss) to Goddess Parvati**
The Hartalika Teej worship is incomplete without the *Solah Shringar* (the sixteen traditional adornments). Be sure to purchase items such as *Sindoor*, a red *Bindi*, bangles, *Mehendi* (henna), toe rings, *Kajal* (kohl), a comb, *Alta* (red dye for hands and feet), and a small mirror to offer to Goddess Parvati. Offering these items to the Goddess ensures a happy married life. There is also a long-standing tradition of donating these *Suhag* items to a married woman after the worship.

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