Women observe the Hartalika Teej fast to pray for their husbands' longevity. By observing this fast, they perform special rituals and prayers, seeking the Lord's blessings for their husbands' long lives and safety. If you are observing the Hartalika Teej fast, pay special attention to the guidelines provided by the learned Acharya Pt. Anupam Maharaj of Vindhyadham. Failure to do so could render the fast incomplete and lead to incurring sin instead of earning merit.

**Points to Remember**
Acharya Pt. Anupam Maharaj of Vindhyadham states that Hartalika Teej is considered a sacred fast. Women undertake this rigorous fast and worship Lord Shiva to ensure their husbands' longevity. During the fast, women should be mindful of certain practices to maximize spiritual merit and avoid incurring sin. On the day of the fast, ensure you do not speak ill of anyone; avoid this completely. Do not tell lies. If possible, stay awake at night (*Jagran*), as sleeping is prohibited for women observing this fast. Worshipping Lord Shiva and keeping a vigil at night yields special blessings and helps avert crises in life.

**Do Not Touch Salt**
Pt. Anupam Maharaj advises that if you feel thirsty during the Hartalika Teej fast, you should bathe or use water on your body; this is the only appropriate way to manage thirst. However, do not touch salt on this day; touching salt is strictly prohibited. Women should also try to avoid touching garlic, onions, or meat as much as possible on this day. Additionally, avoid traveling while observing this fast; do not undertake any journeys. Do not bring items from someone else's home into your own on the day of Hartalika Teej, as this can invite poverty and displease Lord Shiva and Goddess Lakshmi.

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