The event, which is important for Hindu women, commemorates the union of Goddess Parbati with Lord Shiva, and the women sing and dance putting on red dresses, bangles and red jewels, as it is the colour of celebration.

Organiser Keshav Timalsena said this was the first time an event such as this has been held here.

"I have been here in Armidale since 2007 and never held this kind of event," he said. 

"In 2007 we had two Nepalese women here in Armidale and today we have 43, including students."

Special guest for the evening was Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall who spoke to the 65 people who attended the event. At Teej, male family members prepare delicious dishes at midnight and serve