Bhai Dooj is celebrated on Kartik Shukla Dwitiya, the second day of the bright fortnight of the Kartik month, two days after Diwali in most years. It is the last day of the five day Diwali festival and celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.
This article is based on religious beliefs and folk traditions. Democratic Bharat Live does not claim to verify them.
The story of Yama and Yamuna
According to a popular legend, Yama, the god of death, visited his sister Yamuna on this day after a long time. Yamuna welcomed him with a tilak, aarti and a feast. Pleased, Yama gave her a boon that any brother who visits his sister on this day and receives tilak from her would be protected from untimely death. That is why the day is also called Yama Dwitiya.
Another story says Lord Krishna visited his sister Subhadra after defeating the demon Narakasura, and she welcomed him with a tilak and sweets.
How it is celebrated
- Sisters prepare a plate with roli, rice, a diya, sweets and a coconut.
- They apply tilak on their brother’s forehead, perform aarti and pray for his long life and well being.
- Brothers give gifts and promise to protect their sisters.
- Families share a festive meal.
In some places, sisters fast until the ritual is done. In parts of North India, a ritual of drawing a square with flour and making brothers sit in it is followed.
Regional names
- Bhai Dooj in North India
- Bhau Beej in Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka
- Bhai Phonta in West Bengal, where sisters apply a tilak of sandalwood
- Bhai Tika in Nepal, where it is part of Tihar and sisters apply a seven coloured tika
- Bhatru Dwitiya in some regions
Also Read: Govardhan Puja and Annakut: The Story of Krishna Lifting the Hill and How the Festival Is Celebrated | Kartik Month Significance: Deepdaan, Holy Dips and the Festivals That Fall in This Sacred Month
Yamuna snan
In Mathura, many brothers and sisters take a holy dip together in the Yamuna on this day, based on the legend of Yama and Yamuna. The Vishram Ghat sees large crowds.
Chitragupta Puja
In some communities, especially the Kayastha community, Chitragupta Puja is also performed on this day, with worship of pen and ink.
Date
Bhai Dooj falls on Kartik Shukla Dwitiya. Due to the timing of tithis, the date can vary, so check your local panchang.
Bottom line
Bhai Dooj is a heartfelt festival of sibling love, rooted in the story of Yama and Yamuna and celebrated with tilak, prayers and gifts across India.
Source / स्रोत: Ministry of Culture, Incredible India, Ministry of Tourism
