Teej Festival in Australia: Nepali Women Keeping Traditions Alive

Teej is a cherished festival among Nepali women, one that celebrates devotion, cultural identity, and womanhood. As the Nepali diaspora in Australia continues to grow, the essence of Teej is now proudly carried across borders. Women gather in vibrant red attire, adorned with symbolic jewelry, singing traditional songs, fasting for marital harmony, and honouring age-old customs. At RB Diamond, we celebrate this beautiful tradition by offering a curated Teej Special collection featuring timeless Nepali jewelry like Tilhari, Naugedi, Cuttergedi, Chandrama brooches, and 24k pendants, each deeply rooted in heritage and spirituality.

What is Teej, and Why is It Celebrated?

Teej, also known as Haritalika Teej, is a major Hindu festival observed primarily by women in Nepal and parts of India. It is dedicated to Goddess Parvati, who is believed to have fasted and prayed for Lord Shiva’s love and marriage. Inspired by this devotion, women observe fasts (brat) on Teej, some without food or water, to seek marital bliss, the well-being of their spouse, or a good husband for unmarried women.

Teej usually begins with the Dar Khane Din (feasting day), followed by the fasting day, and concludes with Rishi Panchami, where women cleanse themselves spiritually. Dressed in red sarees and gold jewelry, women come together to dance, sing folk songs, and share stories of strength and sisterhood. In Australia, the Nepali community celebrates Teej with great enthusiasm, hosting cultural events, temple visits, and festive gatherings.

Why is Jewellery So Important During Teej?

Jewellery during Teej is not just ornamental, it’s deeply symbolic. Traditional Nepali ornaments represent marital status, prosperity, protection, and spiritual connection. For married women, adorning themselves in red and gold is a mark of devotion and celebration. For young girls and unmarried women, it's a gesture of cultural pride and spiritual belief.

Wearing these traditional pieces helps connect generations and preserve cultural identity, especially in the diaspora. Here are the five iconic jewelry pieces that play a central role during Teej:

 Tilhari– The Marital Emblem

Tilhari is one of the most sacred symbols worn by married Hindu women. Made from green beads (potey) and a central gold pendant (tilhari), this necklace is considered a sign of a husband’s long life and marital commitment. During Teej, women wear Tilhari while fasting and praying to Goddess Parvati, reinforcing their vows and celebrating womanhood.

At RB Diamond, our Tilhari collection blends traditional craftsmanship with modern finesse perfect for women celebrating both culture and style.

Naugedi – A Statement of Strength and Faith

The Naugedi necklace—literally meaning "nine beads"—is a thick, multi-strand red coral necklace traditionally worn with Tilhari. It symbolizes strength, longevity, and womanly power. Wearing Naugedi during Teej reflects both religious respect and a fashion-forward nod to heritage.

Our handcrafted Naugedi necklaces offer authentic design for those who want to proudly wear their roots.

 Cuttergedi– For the Bold and Beautiful

Cuttergedi is known for its bold, red coral beads and larger-than-life design. Often passed down from generations, this necklace adds a dramatic elegance to the Teej ensemble. It is not only a style statement but also a symbol of protection and fertility.

At RB Diamond, we offer Cuttergedi pieces that respect the traditional form while suiting the tastes of modern Nepali women living abroad

Chandrama Brooches – Moon-Inspired Grace

These moon-shaped brooches, or Chandrama, are worn to add a celestial charm to Teej outfits. They reflect the calm, feminine energy of the moon, resonating with the festival’s themes of serenity, purity, and devotion.

Our Chandrama brooches are intricately crafted and make a unique addition to sarees, shawls, or even bags during Teej.

24K Pendant – Pure Gold, Pure Spirit

For those who wish to add something truly luxurious, our 24k gold pendants carry sacred motifs and elegant detailing. Whether worn as a standalone piece or layered with Tilhari or Naugedi, a 24K Pendant serves as a spiritual and aesthetic focal point.

These pendants make thoughtful Teej gifts, for mothers, daughters, or even oneself.

Celebrate Teej in Australia with Grace and Pride

Teej is not just a ritual, it’s a cultural identity, a celebration of womanhood, and a way to stay connected to one’s roots, even in faraway lands like Australia. Whether you’re fasting, dancing, or joining a temple event, embracing traditional jewelry enhances the experience and honours centuries of tradition.

Explore the Teej Special collection at RB Diamond and discover timeless pieces that reflect your faith, beauty, and heritage.