What to Eat During Teej Vrat: Teej is one of the most vibrant and spiritually significant festivals celebrated across various regions of India and Nepal. Dedicated to the divine union of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva, Teej marks the advent of monsoon and is observed with prayers, fasting, and festivities. Central to this festival is the Teej Vrat—a fast observed by women and devotees seeking marital bliss, prosperity, and spiritual growth.
However, the observance of Teej Vrat varies widely depending on the type of Teej, regional customs, and individual circumstances such as pregnancy or health conditions. This comprehensive guide walks you through the different types of Teej, the variations in fasting practices, and most importantly, what to eat during Teej Vrat to honor tradition while maintaining well-being.
Understanding the Different Types of Teej and Their Fasts
Teej is a collective term for several festivals celebrated primarily by women across North India, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Nepal, among other regions. Each type of Teej has its own customs, fasting styles, and food traditions, shaped by regional cultures, religious beliefs, and personal conditions. Here’s an in-depth look at the main types of Teej and their fasting variations, including special considerations for different individuals.
1. Hariyali Teej
When & Where:
Hariyali Teej is celebrated mainly in North India during the month of Shravan (July-August), coinciding with the lush monsoon season. It commemorates the reunion of Goddess Parvati with Lord Shiva and symbolizes marital bliss and well-being.
Fasting Style:
Most women observe a partial fast from sunrise to sunset. Some may eat light meals or fruits before sunset, while others may fast strictly without food but allow water.
Foods Allowed:
- Fruits like bananas, apples, and mangoes (seasonal)
- Nuts and dry fruits such as almonds, cashews, and raisins
- Dairy products: milk, curd (yogurt), paneer, and ghee
- Vrat-friendly flours like singhada (water chestnut) and kuttu (buckwheat), used for puris or parathas
- Sabudana (tapioca pearls) dishes are also common.
Special Considerations:
- Pregnant or nursing women often consume fruits, nuts, and dairy throughout the day to maintain strength.
- Elderly women or those with health conditions may modify the fast to include more frequent light meals.
- Devotees often consume Sargi (pre-dawn meal) prepared by the mother-in-law as a ritualistic practice to sustain them through the fast.
Also Read: Hartalika Teej Puja Vidhi: How to Celebrate This Auspicious Festival
2. Kajari Teej
When & Where:
Kajari Teej is observed mainly in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and parts of Madhya Pradesh during the month of Bhadrapada (August-September). It is dedicated to the welfare of spouses and family harmony.
Fasting Style:
Kajari Teej fasting is generally more lenient, often categorized as a partial fast, allowing some vrat-friendly foods during the day.
Foods Allowed:
- Sabudana (tapioca pearls) dishes like khichdi or vada
- Fruits such as bananas, guavas, and pomegranates
- Dry fruits and nuts for nourishment
- Milk, curd, and other dairy products
- Kuttu roti or singhada puris made from fasting flours
Special Notes:
- In some areas, fasting is observed only until midday, after which devotees consume sattvic foods.
- Unlike Hariyali Teej, Kajari Teej may include simple vegetable dishes without onion or garlic, depending on family traditions.
- Women engaged in heavy physical work or with health concerns are advised to take adequate nutrition during the fast.
3. Hartalika Teej
When & Where:
Hartalika Teej is celebrated predominantly in Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and parts of North India during the Bhadrapada month, usually a day before Ganesh Chaturthi. It honors the determination of Goddess Parvati to marry Lord Shiva.
Fasting Style:
This is one of the strictest fasts of Teej, often involving a nirjala fast, meaning no food or water is consumed for 24 hours.
Foods Allowed:
- Before starting the fast (Sargi), women consume fruits, singhada flour parathas, milk, and dry fruits.
- During the fast, no food or water is consumed for the entire day.
Breaking the Fast:
- Light foods like soaked black grams (urad dal), cucumber slices, and fresh fruits are traditionally consumed to break the fast gently.
- Warm milk or buttermilk is also common as a first drink after the fast.
Special Considerations:
- This fast is not recommended for pregnant, nursing, or elderly women due to its strict nature.
- Women with medical conditions should consult doctors and may observe a modified fast or skip the fast altogether.
- Some women follow a water-only fast, while others may consume small amounts of fruits or milk depending on family customs.
4. Nirjala Teej
When & Where:
Nirjala Teej is observed in certain regions like Rajasthan and parts of North India, marking a very austere fasting practice dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Fasting Style:
This is considered the most rigorous form of Teej fasting, where devotees abstain from both food and water for 24 hours.
Pre-Fast Foods:
- Hydrating and nutritious foods such as seasonal fruits (watermelon, grapes), milk, yogurt, and light meals rich in fluids.
Breaking the Fast:
- The fast is broken with easily digestible foods such as fruit juices, milk, or light kheer to gently revive the body.
Special Notes:
- This fast is suitable only for those in good health and with strong willpower.
- Pregnant or nursing women should avoid this fast or follow a modified version.
5. Sindhara Teej and Teejri
When & Where:
Sindhara Teej is a special ritual mostly celebrated in Rajasthan and Sindhi communities. It marks the monsoon season and the worship of Goddess Parvati.
Fasting Style:
The fasting customs vary but generally involve vegetarian fasting, often including some form of food intake.
Foods Allowed:
- Special sweets like Ghevar and Gujiya are prepared as offerings and Prasad.
- Fruits, dry fruits, and fasting-friendly flours are used in cooking.
- Dairy products like milk and ghee form an important part of the offerings.
Teejri, a Sindhi community variant, has specific rituals and dishes like Lola (a sweet flatbread) and unique fasting customs emphasizing community gathering.
Also Read: Hartalika Teej Vrat Vidhi
Additional Teej Variations and Special Conditions
Niral Teej (Modified Fast):
- For women who cannot observe strict fasts due to health or personal reasons, Niral Teej offers a modified version where light, sattvic foods are allowed throughout the day.
- This includes fruits, milk, nuts, and light fasting flours prepared simply without oil or spices.
Pregnant and Nursing Women:
- Full fasting, especially nirjala or water-only fasts, is not recommended.
- Instead, consuming fruits, nuts, milk, and light, nourishing foods at regular intervals is advised.
- Consulting with a healthcare provider before fasting is essential.
Elderly and Ill Individuals:
- Should avoid strict fasting and focus on modified fasts with light, nutritious foods.
- Hydration and balanced nutrition take priority over ritual fasting.
Summary Table of Teej Types and Fasting Styles
| Teej Type | Fasting Style | Allowed Foods | Special Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hariyali Teej | Partial fast (daytime fast) | Fruits, nuts, dairy, singhada, kuttu | Modified fast for pregnant/nursing women |
| Kajari Teej | Partial fast | Sabudana, fruits, kuttu roti, milk | Flexible fasting hours |
| Hartalika Teej | Nirjala or water-only fast | Sargi: fruits, singhada paratha, milk | Not for pregnant/ill women |
| Nirjala Teej | Strict fast (no food/water) | Hydrating pre-fast foods | Only for healthy adults |
| Sindhara Teej | Vegetarian fast | Fruits, nuts, milk, and simple flours | Community-specific customs |
| Niral Teej | Modified light fast | Fruits, nuts, milk, simple flours | For those unable to fast strictly |
What to Eat During Teej Vrat? Foods Allowed and Recommended
The core of any vrat is the food consumed, either before fasting begins or during a partial fast. Here’s a list of fasting-friendly foods that are allowed across different types of Teej:
- Fruits and Dry Fruits: Bananas, apples, pomegranates, grapes, almonds, cashews, raisins, and dates. These provide natural sugars and essential nutrients.
- Dairy Products: Milk, ghee, curd, paneer. Rich in protein and easy to digest.
- Fasting Grains and Flours: Singhada (water chestnut) flour, kuttu (buckwheat) flour, amaranth flour. Used to prepare puris, parathas, and snacks.
- Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls): Used in khichdi or vada, easy to digest and energizing.
- Vegetables: Potatoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, cucumber, and leafy greens like spinach.
- Nuts and Seeds: Walnuts, flaxseeds, and pumpkin seeds—healthy fats and proteins for sustained energy.
Foods to Avoid During Teej Vrat
Maintaining the sanctity of the fast means avoiding certain foods that are considered tamasic (impure) or heavy on digestion:
- Non-vegetarian foods and eggs.
- Onion, garlic, and other alliums.
- Heavy, oily, spicy, or processed foods.
- Alcohol and caffeinated drinks.
- Grains like rice, wheat, and barley, unless specifically allowed for the vrat.
Also Read: Hartalika Teej Katha In English
Special Considerations for Pregnant and Nursing Women
Fasting during pregnancy requires special care:
- Consult your healthcare provider before undertaking any fast.
- Modified fasts, such as fruit fasts or partial fasts are recommended instead of strict water-only fasts.
- Stay well-hydrated with coconut water, fresh juices, and milk.
- Break your fast gently with nutritious and light foods.
How to Break the Teej Fast
Breaking the fast properly is crucial:
- Begin with hydrating fruits or a glass of milk.
- Follow with light meals like khichdi, boiled vegetables, or simple dals.
- Avoid heavy or spicy food immediately after the fast.
- Take your time and savor the food slowly.
Tips for a Healthy and Devotional Teej Vrat
- Plan your meals ahead to avoid stress and maintain purity.
- Keep your cooking environment clean and cook with devotion.
- Stay hydrated and get enough rest on fasting days.
- Focus on spiritual practices alongside fasting for a fulfilling experience.
Conclusion
Teej Vrat is a beautiful blend of devotion, tradition, and self-discipline. Understanding the variations in fasting styles and food customs across different types of Teej helps you observe the vrat meaningfully and safely. By choosing the right foods and honoring your body’s needs, you invite blessings, health, and happiness into your life.
Celebrate Teej with faith, mindfulness, and the joy of shared traditions!
