Source: www.asianews.it
KATHMANDU, NEPAL, August 24, 2009: From August 22 to 24 thousands of women from all walks of society celebrated the annual festival of Teej, fasting from dawn until dusk and remaining in prayer for three days, either in the temple or at home, imploring God Shiva to grant the men of their family health and fortune. The practice derives from an ancient legend proclaiming the benefits of austerity for achieving union with God, in which Parvati stood for three days without eating or drinking in order to become Shiva’s wife.
The level of involvement differs. B. Haridi, 68, says that “this gesture is part of our culture and I am confident that thanks to my fasting God will grant my husband health and prosperity.” Ranjana, 25, does not hold that belief, “but I do this because it is part of our culture.” The actress Rekha Thapa, still single, states that “family is one of the most important things for me. This is why I offer prayers to Shiva for a future husband. “
The festival is also an opportunity for women in Nepal to express their opinion. Through their chants to the Deity, they express their dissatisfaction with being treated as inferiors, as is often the case. Last year the event was used to express dissent against the Maoist government, which had tried to repress it.
Nepal’s prime minister, Madhav Kumar Nepal, has asked all Hindu women to be promoters of cooperation and unity for the country.