Background
Recently, the central campus of Lumbini Buddhist University organized a Teej-song competition for Bachelor-level students. Six groups from various streams participated, showcasing remarkable energy, creativity, and ambition. As requested, I had the privilege of attending the event, witnessing the talent and aspirations of our students firsthand. The program proceeded smoothly, with formalities completed and non-competitive performances adding to the vibrant atmosphere. After enjoying the traditional Sujata Khir, I had a conversation with a postgraduate student. But before diving into that discussion, let me share what I conveyed to the students.
Haritalika
Teej—derived from the Sanskrit word “Triteeya,” meaning the third—marks the third day of the waxing moon in the month of Bhadra. This festival, celebrated over four days, is also known as Haritalika in the scriptures. The term ‘Haritalika’ combines two words: ‘Harita,’ meaning abducted, and ‘Alika,’ meaning friends. According to the scriptures, the festival’s origin lies with Parvati, the daughter of the Himalayas, who was “abducted” by her friends to prevent her from marrying Vishnu, as her father had decided. Parvati, however, had set her heart on Shiva. With the help of her friends, she secluded herself by the banks of the Ganges, where she performed severe penance. Her dedication and love ultimately drew Shiva to her, leading to their divine union.
This festival, therefore, commemorates Parvati’s deep devotion and determination, symbolizing a woman’s right to choose her own path in life.
Symbolism
In Eastern mythology, divine couples like Shiva-Parvati and Radha-Krishna epitomize Prema, the purest form of love. Their stories are timeless symbols of sacrifice, patience, and the profound bond that transcends worldly challenges. Radha, despite her deep affection for Krishna, never married him due to societal constraints, yet their Prema is celebrated as one of the purest forms of devotion.
The story of Shiva and Parvati is equally compelling. Shiva, adorned with a garland of skulls and serpents, and Parvati, the embodiment of beauty and grace, represent a harmonious union of contrasts. Despite their differences, their love and mutual respect make them an inseparable pair—Uma-Shankara.
This verse captures the essence beautifully:
रुद्रोमुण्डधरोभुजङ्गसहितोगौरीतुसद्भूषणा
स्कन्दःशम्भुसुतःषडाननयुतस्तुण्डीचलम्बोदरः।
सिंहक्रेलिममूषकंचवृषभस्तेषांनिजंवाहन-
मित्थंशम्भुगृहेविभिन्नमतिषुचैक्यंसदावर्तते॥
Shiva is adorned with a garland of skulls and serpents, while Parvati is adorned with beautiful ornaments. Shiva’s son Kartikeya has six faces, and Ganesha has a long trunk and a large belly. The respective vehicles of Lord Shiva and his family members—a bull, a lion, a peacock, and a mouse—are natural enemies of each other. Despite this, there is always unity within Shiva’s family, which comprises beings of diverse and opposing natures.Despite these contrasts, they never allow any rumors of divorce, symbolizing freedom in relationships, mutual respect, and affection.
Shiva’s family is a metaphor for the world—full of diversity yet unified. Despite their contrasting attributes, the members of Shiva’s household live in harmony, reminding us of the importance of unity amidst diversity.
Haritalika, like all our culturally rich festivals, carries unique customs, food, societal practices, music, and songs, aligning with the season and weather. Examine the melody of Teej songs, Dashain songs, and Bhailo during Tihar. These are the features of our culture that protect us from an identity crisis. It is up to us to use our rationality to grasp the hidden meanings of these practices, striving for collective happiness.
Why Should We Celebrate Haritalika?
During the event, a student from a Buddhist background asked a thoughtful question: “Why should we celebrate Haritalika at a Buddhist University?” This question resonates deeply in our multicultural society.
The answer lies in understanding the essence of cultural practices. Shakyamuni Buddha did not preach exclusively to those who identified themselves as Buddhists; instead, people from diverse background were drawn to his wisdom and followed his path after being convinced by his teachings. This inclusivity is what defines true Buddhism. The notion of forced belief or artificial faith is contrary to Buddhist principles.
As a culturally rich festival, Haritalika is deeply rooted in Nepal’s heritage. Celebrating it does not contradict Buddhist values. In fact, those who sincerely practice their own traditions are often the most open to transformation.
In literature, Shakyamuni is known as Sumedha in his previous birth. His genuine practice of Vedic traditions made him ready to embrace the Buddhist path, driven by a hunger for truth. Whether it was Rishi Asita or those who predicted Buddha’s future on his naming day, they all came from different traditions and practiced them sincerely. The same applies to the Kasyapa brothers or Shramana Sanjaya. Let me repeat here, Buddha never expected to preach pre-made Buddhists. If we declare ourselves Buddhists, our personalities should reflect that. People should feel comfortable approaching us, listening to us, and understanding us.
At the heart of such festivals is a quest for collective happiness. By engaging in our cultural practices with genuine intent, we preserve our identity and foster a sense of community.
These were the thoughts I shared with the student, who smiled contentedly. As I exited the gate, I overheard him shaking hands with his friends, saying, “Happy Haritalika, Heroes!
(Acharya Dayanidhi is an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Lumbini Budddhist University.)
