Introduction Hartalika Teej is observed by women seeking marital bliss and by unmarried girls seeking a good husband. “Hartalika” is a combination of two words: Harat (abduction) and Aalika (friend). It refers to the time when Goddess Parvati’s friend took her into the forest to save her from an unwanted marriage.

The Story (Vrat Katha) Goddess Parvati (as Shailputri) was the daughter of the Himalayas. Since childhood, she was determined to marry Lord Shiva. She performed severe penance for years to please him.

However, her father decided to marry her to Lord Vishnu. Parvati was distressed because she had already mentally accepted Shiva as her husband. She cried and told her feelings to her close friend.

Her friend decided to help. She “abducted” Parvati and took her deep into a thick forest near a river so her father could not find her. There, Parvati made a Shiva Linga out of sand and began a rigorous penance without food or water.

Her devotion shook the seat of Lord Shiva. Pleased by her unwavering love and sacrifice, Lord Shiva appeared before her and accepted her as his wife.

Later, Parvati’s father found her. Parvati told him she would only return if he agreed to her marriage with Shiva. Her father bowed to her wish.

Conclusion: Women who observe this Nirjala (waterless) fast and listen to this story are blessed with a happy married life, just as Parvati was united with Shiva.