May 6, 2025 
Hartalika Vrat is a significant Hindu fast observed primarily by married women and unmarried girls in various parts of India, particularly in the northern regions. This occasion is dedicated to seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati for marital bliss, longevity of the husband, and the fulfillment of desires for a suitable life partner. The name “Hartalika” is derived from “Harat” meaning abduction and “Aalika” meaning female friend, a reference to the legend associated with the vrat.
Women wake up early, take a ritualistic bath, and adorn themselves in traditional attire, often in vibrant colors like red, green, and yellow, symbolizing prosperity and marital happiness. A key ritual involves the creation of idols of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha using sand or clay.
The Hartalika Vrat Katha, narrating the story of Goddess Parvati’s penance and marriage to Lord Shiva, is recited or listened to by the vow-holder. An all-night vigil is often kept, with women singing devotional songs and hymns. The fast is broken the following morning after performing the morning puja and immersing the idols in a water body.
Hartalika Vrat is observed on the third day of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, which typically falls a day before Ganesh Chaturthi. The vrat is known for its strict adherence to rituals, the most prominent being the Nirjala Vrat, where women abstain completely from food and water for the entire day and night.