Why would Goddess Parvati leave the comfort of her home and enter a forest to perform a difficult fast? The answer is hidden inside one of the most emotional stories connected with Hartalika Teej. According to Hindu tradition, Parvati Ji had already chosen Lord Shiva in her heart, but her family wanted a different marriage for her. Faced with a choice that could change her entire life, Parvati Ji made a powerful decision. She followed her heart, took refuge in devotion and performed intense penance for Mahadev. Her story became the foundation of the Hartalika Teej Vrat followed by women even today.
