Hartalika Teej is an auspicious fasting festival observed primarily by women for marital bliss, harmony, and the longevity of their families. The name stems from 'harit' (abduction) and 'aalika' (female friend), referring to the legend where Goddess Parvati's friends helped her retreat into deep forests to practice austere penance away from an unwanted alliance.
The observance occurs on the third day (Tritiya) of the waxing fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the lunar month of Bhadrapada, taking place one day before Ganesh Chaturthi. Women maintain a strict waterless (nirjala) fast lasting through the day and entire night.
During the evening and night vigils, handcrafted clay statues of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha are consecrated with bilva leaves, flowers, and seasonal sweets. The fast concludes the next morning after sunrise following concluding prayers and charity to priests.