Actress Dipali Sharma, currently starring in "Pyaar Sey Bandhe Rishte," holds a deep appreciation for Indian traditions and festivals. Recently, she shared her cherished childhood memories of Hartalika Teej, emphasizing the festival's significance in her life.

Dipali describes Teej as a celebration of "love, togetherness, and cherished memories". Her recollections paint a vivid picture of eagerly anticipating the preparations as a child, from applying mehendi to watching her mother and grandmother perform the Pooja. The irresistible aroma of pedakiya (a type of gujiya) frying in ghee was another highlight, creating a sensory experience that deepened her connection to the festival.

One particularly fond memory involves a five-year-old Dipali pleading for a taste of the pedakiya before the Pooja. Her mother playfully hid them, only to reveal them after the ceremony. The joy of finally tasting the treat and the playful competition with her siblings over who could eat the most made the festival truly special for her. These moments of togetherness and shared joy are what she treasures most about Teej.

Later in life, after moving to Mumbai, Dipali observed Hartalika Teej being celebrated differently, with unmarried girls also participating in the fast. This experience broadened her perspective and made her realize the beauty of India's diverse culture. She recognized how each region preserves its traditions in its own unique way, contributing to the country's rich and vibrant cultural tapestry.

Hartalika Teej commemorates the event when Goddess Pārvatī, with the help of her friends, avoided marrying Viṣṇu, a match arranged by her father, Himālaya. Married women observe a nirjala vrata (fast without water) on this day, praying for their husbands' well-being and a happy married life. Unmarried women also participate, hoping to be blessed with a good husband. The festival involves singing, dancing, joyous celebrations, and performing pūjā.

The festival, also known as Tija, literally meaning "third" in Sanskrit, refers to the third day after the new moon, marking the start of the monsoon season in the Hindu calendar. Teej is a collective name for three main festivals: Haryālī Tīja, Kajari Tīja, and Hartālikā Tīja. Haryālī Tīja, also called Sindhārā Tīja or Śrāvaṇa Tīja, falls on the third day after the new moon in the month of Śrāvaṇa, celebrating Shiva consenting to marry Pārvatī. Kajari Tīja is celebrated 15 days after Haryālī Tīja, while Hartālikā Tīja occurs a lunar month after Haryālī Tīja.

Just as in her personal life, Dipali's character in "Pyaar Sey Bandhe Rishte" is deeply rooted in values and traditions. She portrays a sweet, open-hearted village girl who prioritizes her family. This connection between her real and reel life highlights the importance of tradition and values in her life.

In essence, for Dipali Sharma, Teej is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of love, togetherness, cherished memories, and the beauty of Indian culture. It is a time to reflect on the importance of family, tradition, and the bonds that connect us all.