The Festival of Teej is celebrated in India mainly in the state of Rajasthan. This

festival is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and mythologically celebrates Goddess

Parvati’s union with lord Shiva after a 100 year strict penance.

The festival of Teej is celebrated in various parts of Rajasthan with great pomp and

show however how would it feel finding this festival being celebrated with great

splendor in a far off land like Melbourne?

For the last 12 years the Rajasthani Kutumb of Victoria has not only been

celebrating Rajasthani festivals and rituals and its vibrant culture but also

acquainting the Australian citizens about Rajasthan, its rich heritage and legacy.

This year on 23rd August, 2015 this huge Rajasthani family once again gathered to

celebrate “Teej Mahotsav 2015”. The advent to the celebration was with Lord

Ganesh Vandana (Prayer) followed by the ritualized worship and pooja of Teej

Mata (Goddess Parvati).

The celebration was fun-filled and made lively with various events like songs,

quizzing and various games and dance that were enjoyed and played together by all

family members. The event was also marked by astounding performances by kids

and ladies which included dances based on Rajasthani folk dance etc. and fancy

dress presentation by kids as a reflection to the rich culture of our great nation

India.

What more does a Rajasthani wish for than to celebrate the occasion not just

ritually but with best of culinary experience and great food too. Mouth watering

food and snacks were an add up to the occasion and was loved by all. The guests of

honour of the program were Mr. Hong Lim, Member of Parliament, Ms. Manika

Jain, Consular General of India, Mr. Chidambaram Srinivasan, VMC

Commissioner and Mr. Paul Klisaris, Mayor of City of Monash.

The President of ‘The Rajasthani Kutumb of Victoria’ Mr. Anuj Gupta apprised

that the Rajasthani Kutumb is a non-profit organisation and for the past 12 years

has been commemorating the celebration of Teej, Diwali and Gangaur festivals in

Melbourne.

The association bonds with its members through its various programs and

celebrations and keeps them attached to their roots. He also further advised that

any Rajasthani/ Rajasthan resident coming to Melbourne and in need of any kind

of help can without hesitation whatsoever contact the Rajasthani Kutumb of

Victoria at www.rajkov.org.