Teej is a major festival observed by Hindu women, mostly the members of the Brahmin and Chhetri community in the hills and women from Awadhi culture in Tarai. It falls on the third day of the waxing moon in the Nepali month of Bhadra (September).

Traditionally, women observe a day-long fast, visit temples and worship Lord Shiva and Parvati for marital harmony and good fortune. On the eve of Teej, women gather at a place and feast on a variety of savoury dishes so that the food will keep them going throughout the day of fasting.

The tradition of celebrating Teej festival is believed to have originated from Hindu legend. According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Parvati’s wish to marry Lord Shiva was granted after she undertook a rigorous fast.

[Read: For many younger women, Teej has nothing to do with celebrating womanhood]

Apart from the religious aspect, women attire themselves in red clothes, which are believed to be auspicious and indicate sensuality and purity, sing and dance in traditional songs. This is also a time when women take a break from the monotony of their routine life.

Here are some of the photos that show women celebrating Teej on Monday.