Veer Teja Dashmi 2025

In 2025, Teja Dashmi will be observed on Sunday, 31 August 2025.

1. Tithi Begins: Dashami Tithi starts at 09:05 AM on 30 August 2025
2. Tithi Ends: Dashami Tithi ends at 10:32 AM on 31 August 2025

This auspicious tithi falls on the 10th day of the Shukla Paksha in the Bhadrapada month, as per the Hindu lunar calendar. Devotees are encouraged to perform puja and rituals during the early hours of Dashami for maximum spiritual benefit. Local temples often announce specific puja muhurats and community celebrations aligned with sunrise rituals.

Significance of Teja Dashmi in Rajasthani Culture

Teja Dashmi holds immense cultural and spiritual importance in Rajasthan. It commemorates the valor and divinity of Veer Teja Ji, a folk deity revered as the protector of the poor and savior against snake bites. Worshipped by people across Rajasthan, especially in rural areas, Veer Teja Ji is considered an incarnation of Lord Shiva. His legacy is deeply embedded in the oral traditions, folk songs, and local tales passed down through generations.

On this day, devotees pay homage to Veer Teja Ji for his heroic life, unwavering justice, and divine powers. Farmers, snake charmers, and villagers hold a deep emotional bond with the deity, believing that invoking him ensures protection from venomous bites and other ailments. The celebration of Teja Dashmi also symbolizes Rajasthani pride, valor, and the preservation of indigenous traditions, making it more than just a religious occasion—it’s a cultural identity marker for many communities.

Legend of Teja Dashmi

Legend has it that Tejaji died while protecting a herd of cattle from hunters. The only part of his body that was not damaged in the fight was his tongue. While he lay dying, he allowed a snake to bite his tongue. The snake bestowed on him the blessing that anyone who sought the blessings of Tejaji would never die from a snakebite. This blessing would also be bestowed on those who prayed for the health of their livestock if they were bitten by a snake.

The people of Rajasthan revere Tejaji to this day by observing Teja Dashmi.

Rituals and Celebrations of Teja Dashmi

Teja Dashmi is observed with traditional fervor across many regions of Rajasthan. The day begins with early morning baths and rituals at Tejaji temples, followed by offerings of jaggery, ghee, coconut, and milk. Devotees also offer sacred water to Tejaji idols or symbolic snake images, seeking protection from snake bites and invoking his blessings for health and prosperity.

Rath yatras (chariot processions) and folk fairs are organized in several towns and villages, with local musicians performing Tejaji bhajans (devotional songs). Devotees, especially children, dress up in traditional attire and participate in cultural events, dances, and community feasts. Special recitations of Tejaji katha (legendary tales) are held to educate the younger generation about his contributions and virtues.

In some areas, snake charmers and healers perform rituals as part of ancient customs, reinforcing the belief in Tejaji’s healing powers. The celebrations reflect community bonding, devotion, and the vibrant rural spirit of Rajasthan.

Origin of the Festival

Teja Dashmi is a festival that is dedicated to a much-loved folk deity of Rajasthan, called Tejaji or Veer Teja. He is considered to be one of the incarnations of Lord Shiva. He was the son of King Bakshaji and was born in the middle of the 13th century in the Khadnal region of Rajasthan.

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