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Bhai Dooj, also known as Yama Dwitiya, is observed on Dwitiya Tithi in the month of Kartik, according to the Hindu calendar.
On Bhai Dooj, sisters perform puja for brothers and apply tilak (tikka) on their foreheads. (Image: Shutterstock)
Bhai Dooj is celebrated annually on the last day of the five-day Diwali festivities. According to Drik Panchang, this year’s Bhai Dooj will be observed on November 3. This special occasion honours the cherished bond between siblings. Sisters pray for the longevity, health, and prosperity of their beloved brothers. Bhai Dooj is known by various names in India, including Bhau Beej, Bhatra Dwitiya, Bhai Dwitiya and Bhai Phonta.
WHEN DID BHAI DOOJ START?
According to Hindu mythology, Bhai Dooj originated from the visit of Lord Krishna to his sister Subhadra after defeating the demon Narakasura. Subhadra welcomed him with sweets and flowers and applied tilak to his forehead, establishing the tradition of Bhai Dooj.
Another popular legend involves Lord Yama, the god of death, visiting his sister Yamuna. During this visit, she performed the tilak ceremony, prompting Lord Yama to declare that anyone who receives tilak and sweets from their sister on this day would be blessed with longevity.
These mythological tales form the cultural backdrop of Bhai Dooj, emphasizing the importance of sibling relationships, love, and protection.
BHAI DOOJ 2024: SIGNIFICANCE
On Bhai Dooj, siblings come together to celebrate their bond with joy and affection. The day is marked by the exchange of gifts, heartfelt wishes, and shared moments of love, reinforcing the deep connection between brothers and sisters. The rituals performed during this ceremony aim to protect siblings from evil influences and bestow blessings of prosperity and longevity upon them.
BHAI DOOJ 2024: IMPORTANT RITUALS AND TRADITIONS
On Bhai Dooj, sisters celebrate their brothers by performing heartfelt rituals that symbolise their love and care. The festivities begin with sisters applying a tilak on their brother’s forehead, followed by a ceremonial aarti while holding a thali filled with sweets, roli and coconut. After this ritual, sisters feed their brothers sweets as a gesture of affection.
In return, brothers present gifts to their sisters, fostering a spirit of gratitude and appreciation. In many families, sisters prepare special meals for their brothers, while others gather as an entire family to partake in the celebrations. This exchange of gifts, sweets, and ceremonial tilaks not only enhances the joy of the occasion but also deepens the emotional bond between siblings, making Bhai Dooj a cherished celebration of love and togetherness.
BHAI DOOJ 2024: SHUBH MUHURAT / TIMINGS
- Bhai Dooj Aparahna Time – 13:10 to 15:22
- Dwitiya Tithi Begining Time – 20:21 on Nov 02, 2024
- Dwitiya Tithi Ending Time – 22:05 on Nov 03, 2024
ALSO READ: Diwali 2024: From Dhanteras To Bhai Dooj, Significance Of 5 Days Of Deepavali
BHAI DOOJ 2024: 5 GIFT IDEAS TO STRENGTHEN BOND AMONG SIBLINGS
- Jewellery: A beautiful piece of jewellery is a timeless gift that can bring a smile to your sister’s face. Whether it’s a necklace, bracelet, or pair of earrings, jewellery is a meaningful way to express your love and appreciation.
- Customized Gifts: If your sister enjoys personalised items, consider gifting her something unique, such as a coffee mug, photo frame, T-shirt, or cushion cover featuring her name, photo, or a heartfelt message. Custom gifts show that you put thought into her present.
- Books: For the book lovers among your siblings, books make an ideal gift. Treat your sister to the latest release from her favourite author or a classic she’s been wanting to read. This thoughtful gesture will not only enhance her collection but also inspire her creativity and imagination.
- Gourmet Treats: Surprise your siblings with a selection of gourmet treats such as artisanal chocolates, a customized gift basket filled with their favourite snacks, or sweets. This delicious gift is perfect for indulging their taste buds and sharing delightful moments.
- Fun Activity Passes: Consider giving your siblings the gift of an experience, such as tickets to a concert, a spa day, or a fun activity like cooking class or adventure sports. Experience gifts create lasting memories and offer a unique way to bond with each other beyond material possessions.
BHAI DOOJ 2024: HOW THE DAY IS CELEBRATED ACROSS INDIA
Different regions of India celebrate Bhai Dooj with unique customs and rituals:
Bhai Dooj Celebration In West Bengal
This ceremony, known as Bhai Phota in West Bengal, takes place on the first or second day of the Kali Puja holiday. In Bengal, the sisters observe fast till she applies a phonta or tilak of sandalwood paste to her brother’s forehead. She gives him sweets and gifts and wishes him a long and happy life.
Bhai Dooj Celebration In UP and Bihar
Sisters often curse their brothers on this day. This curse is supposed to be a way to protect the brother from all of the dangers and negative effects of the spirits that surround him.
Bhai Dooj Celebration In Maharashtra and Goa
This ceremony is referred to as Bhai Bij, Bhau-beej, or Bhav Bij among Marathi and Konkani-speaking communities in Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka. In Maharashtra, the brother must sit in a square-shaped spot on the floor drawn by his sister. Before sitting, the brother is obliged to eat a bitter fruit called Karith.
Bhai Dooj Celebration In South India
Known as Yama Dwitiya, this celebration focuses on the mythological aspect of Yama’s visit to his sister Yamuna. Sisters perform rituals to honour their brothers and pray for their long life.
THE SPECIAL BOND BETWEEN BROTHERS AND SISTERS
Bhai Dooj serves as a beautiful reminder of the significance of family bonds and the steadfast support that siblings provide each other throughout their lives. This celebration not only strengthens the connection between brothers and sisters but also fosters a spirit of unity and togetherness within the entire family. It’s a day to cherish these relationships and celebrate the love that binds families together.
