Women observe the Haritalika Teej fast to pray for their husbands' longevity, happiness, and prosperity. Emulating Goddess Parvati, women observe a *Nirjala* fast (abstaining from both food and water) and pray to Lord Shiva for their husbands' well-being. This year, Haritalika Teej falls on September 14. Women will observe the fast on September 14 and conclude it on September 15. Acharya Pt. Anupam Maharaj, a learned scholar from Vindhyadham, has outlined the rituals for the fast, the worship, and the *Paran* (breaking of the fast). Observing these rituals invites the special grace of Lord Shiva, bringing happiness, prosperity, and abundance.

Pt. Anupam Maharaj, a learned astrologer from Vindhyadham, explained that the Haritalika Teej fast is observed on the *Tritiya Tithi* (third day) of the *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Bhadon, coinciding with the *Hasta Nakshatra*. This year, Haritalika Teej falls on Monday, September 14, with the specific *Tithi* lasting until 7:14 AM. Women should perform an initial worship at a Shiva temple before 7:14 AM and then continue worshipping Lord Shiva throughout the day. They should perform a special *Abhishek* (ritual bathing of the deity) and listen to the sacred narrative (*Katha*) of the festival. By observing this *Nirjala* fast—much like Goddess Parvati—women ensure their husbands are protected from all forms of adversity and blessed with a long life.

**Attire to be Worn**

Pt. Anupam Maharaj stated that women observing the Haritalika Teej fast pray for their husbands' happiness and prosperity. There are specific rules and disciplines to be followed by those observing the fast. Women should wear garments in white, red, or yellow. They should adorn themselves with symbols of marital bliss (*Suhag*) and offer similar items—such as a saree and traditional marital adornments—to the Goddess.

**Prepare a Clay Shivling at Home**

Pt. Anupam Maharaj advised that on the day of Haritalika Teej, women should install clay idols of Lord Shiva’s family at home. The husband and wife should sit together with their family to worship Lord Shiva. They should also invite an Acharya, priest, Guru, or Brahmin to recite the sacred story (*Katha*) of the festival. On the following day, before breaking the fast (*paran*), one should perform acts of charity and make donations to Brahmins; doing so yields special spiritual benefits. This year, the *paran* is scheduled for September 15th, with the most auspicious time for it falling between 5:54 AM and 6:40 AM. This outlines the procedure for the worship and fast that women can observe on Hartalika Teej to pray for their husbands' well-being and prosperity.

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