ॐ Hindu Of Universe ॐ
“God’s light is within you, It never leaves you.”
India celebrates the unconditional love and bond between brothers and sisters in two ways – either as Rakshabandhan or as Bhai Dooj.
While Rakshabandhan is the tying of a rakhi (thread) on the hand of a brother by his sister, whereas Bhai Dooj is putting a mark of Vermillion, known as Tilak, on the forehead of her brother.
Bhai Dooj celebrates the eternal love between brothers and sisters is celebrated on the last day of Diwali.
Bhai means brother, and Dooj means two days after Diwali in Kartik month of the lunar calendar.
On this pious day, every sister prays for a healthy, long, and bright life of their brothers, and in return, brothers give gifts and cash to their sisters.
Procedure to celebrate this festival: Though the procedure varies in different parts of India, sisters invite their brothers to her house and offer a sumptuous meal often including their favorite dishes/sweets.
While carrying forward the age-old tradition, sisters make a seat for their brothers with rice flour to complete the ceremony.
She performs aarti to her brother and applies a red tilak mark (a mix of Vermillion, Dahi, and rice) on the forehead of her brother.
It is believed that this tilak marking ceremony on the occasion of Bhai Dooj signifies the devotional prayer of a sister for the long and prosperous life of her brother.
In return, elder brothers bless their sisters and treat them with many gifts, jewelry, or cash.
Significance of Bhai Dooj: The tradition and the story behind each ritual have a very deep significance and values which play a vital role in the formation of Hindu culture.
Just like all important Indian festivals, Bhai Dooj is attached to specific characters and personalities which helps the people of this country to understand and know the true significance and uniqueness of the festival.
It is difficult to decode the unique understanding and love between a brother and a sister.
Bhai Dooj is one of the most awaited festivals dedicated to strengthening the bond between siblings.
The story of Bhai Dooj has been carried forward either by word of mouth or through articles, literature, and stored scriptures. With heartfelt love, sisters apply the red tilak on the forehead of the brother, giving him the eatables of his choice and in return receives the gifts.
The celebration comes to an end after praying to God for a long and successful life of the brother and after taking the blessing of all elder people in the house.
The different names of this festival: Hindus living in a different parts of India and Nepal celebrate this festival with the same motive, love, and enthusiasm.
Each region celebrates this holy day with its own traditional names, as follows– Bhayya Duj (Hindi)
• Bhagini Hasta Bhojana (Sanskrit)
Bhai Dooj (North India)
• Yama Dwitiya (Most of South India)
Sodara Bidige (Karnataka)
Bhai Phonta (Bengal)
Bhai-Tika (Nepal)
• Bhau-Beej (Maharashtra)
Bhatri Ditya or Bhaghini Hastha Bhojanamu (Andhra and Telangana)
Legends behind Bhai Dooj; There are different stories related to the origin of this auspicious day.
According to a legend, the supreme Lord Krishna visited his sister, Subhadra after a rigorous fight and killing the mighty demon Narkasur.
His younger sister gave him a warm welcome and celebrated that day as a memorable day with flowers, eatables, and sweets.
Subhadra also applied the ceremonial “tilak” on the forehead of Krishna, and performed aarti.
Hence the festival of “Bhai Dooj” originated from there.
Another legend revolves around the story of God Yama (the God of Death) and his sister Yamuna.
It is believed that after a long period God Yama met his beloved sister on Dwitheya, the second day after Diwali (the new moon day).
Lord Yama was delighted by his sister’s loving welcome, and the brother and sister spent a pleasant evening in each other’s company.
When it was time for God Yama to leave his sister’s house, He said, you have welcomed me with a pure heart, but I did not bring you a gift.
Therefore, ask me something and that will be yours.
After some friendly discussion, Yamuna requested Him for a boon and said, “it is my wish that all brothers should remember their sisters on this auspicious day and if possible, they should visit their house and, on this day, all sisters should pray for the longevity and happiness of their brothers.“
“So be it!” proclaimed Lord Yama, and said, “I grant long and healthy life to all brothers who give blessings and gifts to their sisters on this day”.
Summary: Bhai Dooj, Bhau beej, Bhai Tika, Bhai Phonta is a ritual celebrated by Hindus on the second lunar day of Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) in the Kartika month of the Hindu calendar.
According to the teachings of mythology, people from Hindu origin celebrate this festival since Dwapara Yuga, when Lord Krishna received a warm welcome during a sacred visit to His sisters Kingdom.
On this auspicious day of Bhai Dooj, women invite their brothers to their home and apply ’tilak’ on their foreheads and offer prayers to the Gods for the wellbeing of their brothers, and in return, brothers present them beautiful gifts and cash.
In present days, most of the families are shrinking and family members are living in distant places to earn their livelihood.
Just like Raksha Bandhan, Bhai Dooj is one of the oldest festivals which reunites and renews the relationship between brothers and sisters and brings unity in entire family.
Bhaiya Dooj
Bhai Dooj, also called Bhau Beej, Bhai Tika and Bhai Phonta, is a prominent Indian festival, celebrated by the Hindus of India, when sisters pray for a long and happy life for their brothers and perform the Tika ceremony.
The celebrations and rituals of this day, similar to the festival of Raksha Bandhan, are performed on the last day of the 5-day long celebrations of the nationwide festival Diwali, referred to as Tihar in the states of Assam, Sikkim and Darjeeling in West Bengal, as well as in Nepal.
Bhai Dooj falls on the second day of Shukla Paksha, the bright fortnight of the Hindu lunar month of Kartika.
Regional Names of Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj is referred to in different names across different regions and communities.
It is called “Bhai Tika” in Nepal and considered the second most important festival there after Dashain, which is what they refer Vijayadashmi or Dussehra.
It is also known as “Bhaitihar”, meaning Tihar of brothers and on this day, sisters pray to Yamraj for her brother’s long life and prosperity.
They put a seven coloured long tika on the forehead of their brothers.
It is called “Bhai Phonta” by the Bengali Hindu community and celebrated by them usually two or three days after Kali Puja celebrations.
It is a public holiday in West Bengal.
The festival is called “Bhai Bij” or “Bhau Beej” by the Gujarati, Marathi and Konkani-speaking communities in the western Indian states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka.
Other names given to the festival include “Bhatru Dviteeya” or “Bhatri Ditya”.
Legends of Bhai Dooj The festive day of Bhai Dooj is also given the name “Yamadwitheya” or “Yamadvitiya”, associating with a legend that depicts the meeting between Yama, the god of Death and his sister Yamuna, the famous Indian River on Dwitheya, which is the second day after new moon.
Another popular legend of Hindu mythology associated with this festival is about Lord Krishna, who after slaying the evil demon Narkasur, visited his sister Subhadra who gave him a warm welcome with sweets and flowers. She also affectionately applied on Krishna’s forehead.
Some believe this to be the origin of the festival, celebrated three days after Naraka Chaturdashi, which is celebrated on the second day of Diwali celebrations, in the belief that on this day the demon was defeated and vanquished by Krishna.
Celebrations and Rituals of Bhai Dooj
On the day of Bhai Dooj, sisters invite their brothers for a sumptuous meal often including their favourite dishes and sweets.
The ceremony signifies the duty of a brother to protect his sister, as well as a sister’s blessings for her brother.
Carrying forward the ceremony in traditional style, sisters perform Aarti for their brother and apply a red tika on the brother’s forehead.
This Tika ceremony on the occasion of Bhai Dooj signifies the sisters sincerest prayers for the long and happy life of her brother and in return, brothers bless their sisters and also treat them with gifts or cash.
As it is customary in Haryana and Maharashtra to celebrate the auspicious occasion of Bhai Dooj, women who do not have a brother worship the moon God instead.
They apply Mehendi on themselves as their tradition.
The sister whose brother lives far away from her and is unable to visit her at her home, sends her sincerest prayers for the long and happy life of her brother through the moon god.
She performs Aarti for the moon.
This is the reason why children of Hindu parents affectionately call the moon Chandamama. (“Chanda” means moon and “mama” refers to mother’s brother).
Bhai Phonta in West Bengal is celebrated with much splendour, marking many rituals along with a grand feast arranged for the brothers.
The festival is also popular in Haryana, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Goa and celebrated with fervour and gaiety.
Brothers and sisters look forward to the festive occasion with immense enthusiasm.
It is a time of family reunions as all brothers and sisters in the family get together, with close relatives and friends also invited to celebrate the Bhau Beej in many families.
Gifts are exchanged between brothers and sisters as a token of love and appreciation and special delicacies are prepared on the occasion, such as the Maharashtra sweet Basundi Poori or Kheerni Poori.
Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj is celebrated in India to honor one of the most precious and special relationship between a brother and a sister.
The occasion of Bhai Dooj is followed mainly by the Hindus and is an important occasion to glorify the relationship of a brother and a sister.
On this day a girl prays for the well-being and prosperity of her brother and puts a vermilion (also called a Tilak) on the forehead of her brother.
The brother in turn vows to protect his sister at all times and also showers his sister with gifts. This is a special festival on the Hindu calendar which reaffirms the strong bond between a brother and a sister.
There are many interpretations of the Bhai Dooj festival which also goes by the name of Bhaubeej (in Maharashtra), Bhai Bheej (in Gujarat) and Bhai Pota (in West Bengal). Be it any region or any name this festival invokes huge excitement amongst the Hindus. New clothes, tempting dishes, gifts and sweets are all part of the customs associated with the Bhai Dooj festival.
Bhai Dooj festival is celebrated every year and is one true celebration of a relationship.
Every year the festival of Bhai Dooj falls during the month of October and November.
When is Bhai Dooj
THE NAME of Bhai Dooj refers to two terms namely Bhai that means Brother and Dooj that stands for the second day after the new moon.
Bhai Duj is celebrated every year usually in the month of October-November, two days after Diwali festival.
Bhai Dooj Festival on 9 November.
Tradition and Celebrations of Bhaiya Dooj
“Bhratus tabaa grajaataaham, Bhunksa bhaktamidam shuvam Preetaye yama raajasya, Yamunaah Visheshatah.”
” I’m your sister, Eat this sacred rice, For the pleasure of “Yam Raj” and “Yamuna”.”
The auspicious occasion of Bhai Dooj is eagerly awaited, that reinforces the bond between brothers and sisters and their affectionate relationship.
On the festive day everyone gets ready very early to celebrate the Occasions.
After praying to God, the sisters perform the aarti of their brothers and put ‘tika’ and ‘chawal’ on their forehead, praying for their well being and brothers in return pledges to take care of her, in any condition.
It’s an opportunity for a good feast, coupled with an enthusiastic exchange of gifts, and merriment in every Indian household.
According to the Hindu scriptures say: “A forehead without a Tilak is worthy of condemnation and they exist for name’s sake only.”
It is held that anyone who receives the auspicious tilak on the forehead from his sister on this day would never be hurled into hell.
Bhai Dooj is celebrated two days after the grand celebrations of Diwali festival.
The festival of Bhaiya Dooj is observed among Hindus throughout India with great devotion and known with various names such as : ‘Bhav-Bij’ in Maharashtra, ‘Bhai Phota’ in West Bengal, ‘Bhai Beej’ in Gujarat.
Bhathru Dwithiya, Bhai-Tika, Bhatri Ditya and Yamadwitheya are some other popular names for Bhai Dooj.
Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj, the festival that is celebrated just one day after the grand Diwali festival celebration is much like the festival of Raksha Bandhan that strengthens the brother-sister bond.
It is one of the auspicious and very popular Indian festivals that are celebrated across India with great excitement.
For every brother and sister, the day of Bhai Dooj festival celebration comes as a day of opportunity to celebrate their bond of love and care as well as strengthen it by following the auspicious rituals.
The most important ritual of the celebration of Bhai Dooj is the aarti and tika ceremony.
On the day of Bhai Dooj sister firstly puts does the aarti of her brother with the holy flame and does the tika on her forehead and then she prays to God for his long and healthy life.
This is the way of expressing care and love to brother by a sister.
In this return, sisters get a token of love from brothers.
Meaning and Significance
The majority of Hindu festivals and rituals put stress on the significance of family bonding and relationships.
Although every relationship possesses its own value, but the brother-sister relationship is quite unique and unmatched.
Hindu culture has manifested the greatness and glory of this relationship in many forms, out of which Bhai Dooj festival is an eminent form.
This auspicious occasion also reveals the importance of siblings in someone’s life.
The golden occasion of Bhai Dooj provides a golden chance to a woman, bound in the clutches of her day to day routine, to go to her native place and meet her parents and siblings.
This festival is like a homage to the pious brother-sister relationship and it also strengthens this bond further.
With the passage of time, this Bhai Dooj festival has no doubt changed its form like use of e-mails, e-greetings, mobile phones, chocolate and beverage hampers, and so.
But, the basic significance of Bhau Bij and the feeling and emotion behind celebrating this wonderful festival is still the same, i.e., revealing and rejuvenating the eternal love of brother and sister. In the present context, we can say that Bhai Dooj will remain significant and consequential in the Indian culture as ever, in the years to come.
Customs and Traditions
Customs and traditions are an inherent part of the rich Indian culture.
In India, a lot of festivals occur one after the other, throughout the year.
Each and every festival celebrated in India has its own social and cultural importance.
Among these, one of the most significant and awaited festival is the Bhai Dooj festival.
The festival is named Bhai Dooj as it focuses on the brothers, and celebrated on the second day after the new-moon (Amavasya), or Diwali day.
This day is also the third day of the Kartik month, according to the Hindu calendar.
The basic theme behind the origination of the Bhai Dooj festival is believed to be the safety of women.
But, there are also several mythological narrations associated with this festival.
Two most popular stories are as mentioned below:
It is believed that once Yamraj (the god of death) visited her sister Yami.
His sister became very delighted to see him and applied a tilak on his forehead.
At this, Yamraj became so happy that he announced that the person whose sister will apply tilak on his forehead on that day would become free from the fear of death and hell.
From that day, the tradition of Bhai Dooj came into existence.
Another mythological tale says that after killing the devil named, Narkasur, lord Krishna went to his sister Subhadra.
The day on which lord Krishna visited his sister was the second day after the new-moon day, or the dooj day.
Subhadra gave her brother a warm welcome by doing his arti, applying a tilak on his forehead, sprinkling flowers over him, and offering him sweets.
From then onwards, it became a tradition and got fame as the Bhai Dooj festival.
On the auspicious and delightful occasion of Bhai Dooj, sisters apply tilak (a holy mark) on their brothers’ forehead.
They perform artiof their beloved and caring brothers and offer sweets to them, as well.
Brothers also take pledge of their sisters’ safety and give them some gift or present as a reciprocation.
Bhai Dooj is really a great festival, which clearly reflects the customs and traditions of India.
Bhai Duj / Bhaiya Duj / Bhai Dooj
Diwali, the festival of lights, is a five day long celebrations.
The fifth or the last day of diwali is Bhaiya Dooj, popularly know as Bhai Dooj.
The reason why this festival is known as bhai dooj is that it falls on the second day after the new moon, that is the Dooj day.
And it is a day to pray for the long life of the brother, which is referred as “bhayya or bhai”.
According to religious scriptures, Yamaraj, the God of death, went to visit his sister’s house after a long period of separation.
His sister, Yami was very happy to see him and welcomed him by putting an auspicious mark on his forehead for his welfare.
Yami and Yamraj then shared a meal.
He was so pleased with his sister’s reception, he proclaimed that every year, on the dooj day, if a sister puts a tilak on her brother’s forehead, then no one can harm her brother.
Till date, this tradition is followed. Sisters perform puja for their brothers safety and well being.
Brothers in return give gifts to their sisters as a token of love.
Another version Lord Krishna, after killing Narakasur, the asura king, went to meet his sister Subhadra.
Subhadra welcomed him in the traditional way by showing him a light and putting on his forehead a tilak of her sisterly protection.
Some other legend says that Bhagawaan Mahavir found nirvana, his brother Raja Nandivardhan was very say and missed his brother a lot.
Sister Sudarshana then comforted his brother. Since then, women have been revered during this festival.
The festival of Diwali is incomplete without bhai dooj.
It is referred as “Bhaiyya-Duj” in the Hindi-speaking belt, “Bhav–Bij” in the Marathi-speaking communities, “Bhai fota” in Bengal and “Bhai-Tika” in Nepal.
The essence of the Bhai dooj festival is that it is celebrated to strengthen the love between brothers and sisters.
It is a day of food-sharing, gift-giving and reaching out to the inner most depths of the hearts.
Brothers and sisters indulge themselves on this day by gifting each other gifts.
Varied bhai dooj gifts specially meant for bhai dooj is available in the market.
Bhai Duj (Bhai Dooj) Festival
Bhai duj or Bhaiya duj is the day when brothers and sisters meet to express their love and affection for each other.
Diwali is not only a festival of lights, crackers, worship of Goddess Lakshmi, sharing sweets with your loved ones but it is also a perfect occasion for social gatherings to exchange diwali greetings.
This lovely festival brings with it a chance to revive your relationships with each other.
One such special relationship that we talk about during diwali celebrations is the Bhai-Dooj or the Bhaiya-Duj.
Bhaiya Duj is the festival that is celebrated on the fifth day of diwali and it falls on second day after diwali that is on ‘Shukla Paksha Dwitiya’ in the Hindi month of ‘Kartik’.
‘Dwitiya’ means ‘Duj’ or the second day after the new moon.
Thus Bhai Duj is the festival that marks the end of diwali celebrations.
This festival is popular in different regions with different names such as ‘Bhai-Dooj’ in north India, ‘Bhav-Bij’ in Maharashtra, ‘Bhai-Phota’ in Bengal and ‘Bhai-Teeka’ in Nepal.
The festival of Bhai Dooj is known to be based on mythological concept.
The celebrations of Bhai dooj reflects the importance of unique cultural traditions that vary with different region of India.
This helps to keep the family close and brings prosperity, well being and luck. Bhai Dooj falls on the two day after Diwali and is celebrated all over the country.
All the rituals and pooja held on Bhai Dooj is carried out in the general puja room or on the same platform that was decorated for Diwali pooja.
Sisters decorate their puja thali with mithai, batashas, roli and rice along with the coconut.
They light up the puja lamp and perform all the rituals.
Once the pooja is performed by every members of the family, the sister applies tika on the forehead of the brother.
After applying tikka, she gives him a few of the eatables along with the coconut.
Those married women who stay close to their parent’s place visit their brother early in the morning and greet them.
Those staying far off either take out few days to visit her brother or express their love and blessings through posting greeting cards or e-cards and sending their good wishes.
After all the rituals of Bhai Duj is performed, brothers pamper their sisters by presenting the most memorable gifts.
Most commonly, the girl of the house is given presents of clothes, utensils, and lots of mithai and fruits at festivals.
Legends
The legends have that Lord Yamraj, the God of Death, visited his sister Yamuna on the ‘Shukla Paksha Dwitiya’ day in the Hindi month of ‘Kartik’.
When Yamraj reached Yamuna’s home she welcomed Him by performing His aarti, applying ‘Tilak’ on His forehead and by putting a garland around His neck.
Yamuna also cooked varieties of dishes and prepared lots of sweets for her brother and offered all those to Him.
Lord Yamraj ate all those delicious dishes and when He was finished He showered blessings on Yamuna and gave her a boon as a gift that if a brother visits his sister on this day he would be blessed with health and wealth.
This is why this day of Bhayya Duj is also known by the name of ‘Yam-Dwitiya’.
And thus it has become a tradition that on the day of Bhai-Dooj brothers visit their sisters’ home and offer them gifts.
Sisters also make various dishes for their brothers and also give gifts to them.
Another legend is that on this day, Lord Krishna, after slaying the Narakasura demon, goes to his sister Subhadra who welcomes him with the lamp, flowers and sweets, and puts the holy protective spot on her brother’s forehead.
According to another famous legend, when Lord Vamadev was pleased with Bali maharaj and appeared in Vishnu-rupa, Bali asked a boon that Lord Vishnu would be on every door at Patalaloka.
Vishnu agrees and goes to become a Dwarpalaka of Bali.
When Goddess Lakshmi heard this news by Narad, she was in great distressed.
Lakshmi plays trick on Bali in order to make her husband return back to his original place.
She went to Bali as a poor woman seeking help.
She says that she doesn’t have a brother and would dearly like one.
Then Bali accepted her as his sister and told her to ask anything that she need.
Then Lakshmi replied that you have my everything in your service – please release Lord Vishnu.
Thus, Lord Vishnu was released from the service of Bali.
One more story behind the celebrations of Bhai-Duj is that when Bhagwaan Mahavir attained ‘Nirvana’, his brother Raja Nandi-Vardhan became very sad.
He missed Bhagwaan Mahavir very badly then it was his sister Sudarshana, who comforted him. Since then the women have been revered during this festival.
Bhai Duj Celebrations
On the auspicious day of Bhaiya-Dooj brothers and sisters get up early in the morning and get ready to celebrate their day.
The sisters perform ‘aarti’ of their brothers and apply a beautiful ‘Tilak’ or ‘Teeka’ on their forehead.
Then they sweeten their mouths with mouth-watering eatables. Then the brothers and sisters exchange gifts with each other.
On the auspicious day of ‘Yam-Dwitiya’ the people of ‘Kayastha’ community of Hindus celebrates the holy function of worshipping Lord Chitragupta who is the God, who maintains the records of life and death of the creatures.
The ‘Kayastha’ community also worships the pen, paper and ink on this day in the honor of Lord Chitragupta.
Significance of Bhai duj
Like other festivals in India, Bhai Dooj is also an Occasions for family get togethers, feasting and exchanging gifts. Bhai Duj is also a celebration of sacred relationship between sisters and brothers.
Although this festival is dedicated to the bond of care and affection between brother & sister but it goes way beyond it.
Bhaiya Duj signifies the peaceful co-existence of every individual, promotes the feeling of unity and encourage the harmonious social life.
The Festival of Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj is a major festival celebrated by Hindus in different parts of India. Like Raksha Bandhan, this is a festival which celebrates the fraternal bond between brothers and their sisters.
It is celebrated in the Hindu month of Kartika, on the second day of the bright phase of the moon.
The exact date for this festival may vary depending on the region where it is being celebrated and the traditions being followed there.
The rituals for this festival may also vary slightly from one region to another.
This festival is known by different names in different parts of the country. While the Marathis and the Konkanis refer to this festival as Bhai Bij or Bhav Bij, the Bengalis call this festival Bhai Phota. Interestingly, this festival is one of the most important festivals in Nepal where it is called Bhai Tika.
Legends Associated with Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj is associated with some interesting mythological tales.
It is believed that after Lord Krishna had vanquished the demon Narkasur, he was warmly received by his sister Subhadra who placed a tika (a vermilion dot on his forehead) on his forehead and shared sweets with him.
Another account concerns an event in the life of Yamraj who was the God of Death.
He went to meet his sister Yamuna on Bhai Dooj.
They spent a wonderful day together, eating together and talking to each other.
Yamuna placed a tika on his forehead and both of them exchanged gifts.
Thereafter, Yamraj declared that all sisters who celebrated this day would be sure to receive the support and protection of their brother.
Celebrations on Bhai Dooj
On this day, sisters pray for the well-being of their brother and ask them to stand by them through good and bad times.
Sisters take part in the tika ceremony where they apply a vermilion dot on their brother’s forehead.
Sometimes a sandalwood dot may alternatively be placed on the brother’s forehead as prayers are chanted for his good health.
Sisters invoke blessings from their brother and ask them to protect them.
They often perform an aarti for their brother.
In return, the brother promises to be there for his sister.
Once the tika ritual is over, gifts are exchanged.
Chocolates and money may be given by the brother to his sister.
Then sweets are consumed.
The celebrations often extend into a full meal that the family enjoys together.
As people are busy at different times of the year, a festival such as Bhai Dooj is important to get brothers and sisters and their families together.
Bhai Dooj Legends Behind Celebrating This Traditional Ceremony
Sisters perform a puja or prayer for the long life and prosperity of their brothers on Bhai Dooj and present them with sweets.
Every year, Bhai Dooj falls on a new moon night on the fifth and last day of Diwali.
The name ‘Dooj’ refers to the second day following the new moon, the festival day, and ‘Bhai’ refers to a brother.
It is a festival observed in India and Nepal.
The celebration, which takes place two days after Diwali, honours the brother-sister connection.
Sisters perform a puja or prayer for the long life and prosperity of their brothers on Bhai Dooj and present them with sweets.
In exchange, brothers bless and present their sisters. Bhai Dooj : Stories behind the celebration of Bhai Dooj:
Bhai Dooj, like other religious holidays celebrated with great joy and excitement in India, has a number of popular and legendary narratives related to it.
These stories depict how sibling love and compassion transformed everyday occurrences into a festival honouring the sibling relationship.
1. Story of Lord Krishna And Subhadra:
When Lord Krishna came home after defeating the demon king Naraksura in battle, his sister, Subhadra, greeted him warmly.
She greeted him with flowers, conducted his aarti, applied kumkum tilak on his forehead as a victory and protection symbol, and filled his mouth with Bhai Dooj sweets.
During the Bhai Dooj festival, sisters execute a similar rite to ensure the happiness and well-being of their brothers.
2. Story of Lord Yama And Yamuna:
According to mythology, Chhaya, the wife of Lord Surya, had two children, Yamraj and Yamuna.
The Yamuna liked to welcome Yama to her home to visit and eat with her because she was such a lovely sister.
Yamaraj, who had long refused her requests, eventually made the decision to go to her house.
When Lord Yama, the God of Death, finally went to see his sister Yamuna, she was incredibly happy.
She gave him sweets and welcomed her brother to her house and instantly performed aarti before applying roli and tikka to his forehead.
She served him special dishes that made him feel incredibly happy and encouraged him to announce that brothers whose sisters apply tilak on Bhai Dooj will live long, healthy lives and never go to hell.
Since then, Bhai Dooj has also come to be known as Yama Dwitiya due to the widespread Indian celebration customs.
3. Story of King Nandivardhan And Sudarshana:
King Nandivardhan, the brother of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, missed him terribly after he left his home and gained nirvana.
His sister Sudarshana provided him with comfort, support, and care during this trying time.
Since that time, brothers have begun to value and appreciate their sisters and have recognised the significance of their presence in their lives.
This festival occurs on the second day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartika, as shown by the Gregorian calendar (between October and November).
Early in the morning, all the sisters wake up and worship and pray to God and the Goddesses for their brothers’ better futures and health.
After the puja, there is a celebratory rite that includes the application of vermillion, curd, and rice on the foreheads of the participants.
They do aarti and provide sweets and water to eat and drink after the ritual.
After exchanging presents, they finally touch the feet of the elderly to get blessings.
Bhai Dooj – Festival of Brothers & Sisters
When Celebrated –
Meaning of Bhai Dooj – “Bhai” means brother and “Dooj” means the second day after the new moon which is a day of its celebration.
Hence, it is celebrated on the 2nd day of the Shukla Paksha of Kartika, Hindu calendar month which falls between October and November.
The occasion falls on the last day of the five day long celebrations of Diwali
Why Celebrated – Significance
The relationship of brothers and sisters has always been unique in Hindu families.
While sisters shower great love and affection on brothers, brothers act as a protector of their sisters.
Bhai Dooj is a Hindu festival celebrated just like Raksha Bandhan, a festival of bonding between sisters and brothers.
How & Where Celebrated
On this auspicious day, sisters apply tika / tilak on forehead of their brothers, do aarti and offer sweet and glass of water to eat and drink & pray to God for the well-being and prosperous life and brothers offer gifts to sisters to show their love and care for them.
Finally they take blessing by touching the feet of elders.
The festival is celebrated in a large part of India. It is also called as Bhau Beej (in the Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka), Bhai Tika (in Nepal), Bhathru Dwithiya, Bhau-deej, Bhai Phota (in Bengal), and Ningol Chakuba (in Manipur).
Celebrated since when
According to the Hindu Mythology, it is considered that the God of death, Yamraj, had visited his lovable sister named Yami (Yamuna) at this special day.
His sister welcomed him by aarti and tilak ceremony.
She offered him a garland and special dishes including sweets to eat.
He had returned her sister a unique gift as a symbol of his love and care towards her sister.
At that day Yamraj had declared that the brother who would receive tilak and aarti by their sister, he would never be frightened.
That’s why the same day is called as the Yama Dwitiya.
According to another story, Hindu Lord Krishna had returned to his sister, Subhadra, after killing the demon king Narakasur where he was welcomed by his sister with tilak, aarti, sweets and flowers.
History And Significance of Bhai Dooj aka Bhau Beej Festival
I think people that have a brother or sister don’t realize how lucky they are. Sure, they fight a lot, but to know that there’s always somebody there, somebody that’s family.”
Trey Parker & Matt Stone
While the rest of the world is quite looking forward to celebrating their favourite festival, most of us are eagerly waiting for the festival of lights, aka Diwali. Diwali, for us, Indians is not just a festival but rather an emotion.
It is a 5 days long festival, starting with Dhanteras, Choti Diwali, Badi Diwali, Goverdhan Puja and then finally, Bhai Dhooj festival.
While most of us know the historical background of why Diwali is celebrated but do we know the history behind Bhai dooj celebration? As in the mythological significance of Bhai dooj festival, when and why was it started to be celebrated and by whom – facts like these? We don’t think so! Which is why over this blog, we are going to discuss why Bhau Beej, Bhai Teeka or Bhai Phota, as it is referred it in different parts of India, is celebrated as per history, mythology and significance.
Bhai Dhooj comes from two words, “Bhai” which translates to “brother” and “Dooj” which translates to “the second day after the full moon” and hence the name of thsi festival.
Bhai Dhooj is a festival celebrated to commemorate the loving bond between a brother-sister duo – to strengthen it or to make it even better.
This festival is celebrated as the sister applies a tika or vermillion and rice paste on her brother’s forehead as she prays for her long life and well-being.
On the other hand, the brothers promise to protect his sister from any trouble/evil and choose to pamper their darling sisters with some gift.
Mythologically speaking, there are two sides of this beautiful festival’s origin, one is that of Krishna- Subhadra’s story and the other one is of Yamraj – Yamuna’s story.
As far as Lord Krishna and his sister, Subhadra’s story is concerned, it is said that Lord Krishna visited his sister’s place after killing Narkasura.
To make the day special for him, she greeted by applying a tika on his forehead and pampered him with sweets and flowers.
Other than this story, people also happen to believe the story which revolves around the Lord of death, Yamraj and his sister, Yamuna.
As per some old saints, it was said that Lord Yamaraj visited his sister, Yamuna on this day, after ages.
Hence, she greeted him with sweets and applied a tika on his forehead. Yamraj was so happy to see his sister grace his presence this beautifully, that he declared henceforth whoever shall celebrate this festival with their brothers/sisters will be given the boon of long life.
That is the reason, Bhai Dhuj is also referred to as Yama Dwitiya in some cultures and by some people.
It is also said that Lord Mahavira gained his enlightenment on this day, years ago. He was the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism.
It was said that when he left his kingdom, his brother King Nandivardhan was very upset.
And during those times, his sister Sudarshana looked after him and took care of him, which is why Bhai Dhooj is seen as a day to honour a sister.
Hence, from all these stories lying behind the celebration of Bhai Dhooj, one could quite guess the significance of this festival, which is simply protecting each other and seeking the Almighty’s blessings for each other’s long life and well being.
Bhai Dooj
The most awaited festive week of Diwali is here and two days after Diwali, we celebrate the festival of Bhai Dooj.
Also known as ‘Bhai Phonta’, ‘Bhai Tika’, ‘Bhau Beej’, and ‘Yama Dwitiya’, the festival is celebrated in the country one day after Goverdhan Puja and two days after Diwali.
It is one of the significant festivals celebrated during Diwali to commemorate the sacred, and beautiful bond shared between brothers and sisters.
Sisters apply tilak on the forehead of their brothers and pray for their prosperity and longevity.
The word “Bhai” refers to Brother and “Dooj” means the second day after Diwali.
Bhai Dooj marks the end of the five-day festivities of Diwali celebrations which are observed on the second day after the new moon of Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik.
When is Bhai Dooj ?
Bhai Dooj Date: This festival marks the strong bond between a brother-sister relationship.
This year, the festival of Bhai-dooj will fall after two days of Diwali on October 27, .
Bhai Dooj Timing – According to Drik Panchang, the Dwitiya Tithi begins at 2:42 PM on October 26 and ends at 12:45 PM on October 27, .
Bhai Dooj Aparahna Muhurat is from 01:14 PM to 03:35 PM on October 26, .
Keep reading to know more about the history and significance of the festival.
Why is Bhai Dooj Celebrated? History and Significance
What is Bhai Dooj? There are many beliefs associated with the celebrations of Bhai Dooj in which the most popular one is related to Lord Yama or Yamraja, the god of death, and his sister, the Yamuna.
As per the story, the sister of Yama ie.
Yamuna insisted her brother pay a visit to her home on many occasions, but Yamraja was unable to do that.
On the second day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartik, he finally decided to meet her and he was greeted with a grand celebration.
Yamuna applied tilak on his forehead and offered sweets.
Before leaving, Yamraja asked Yamnua for her wish and she requested a boon that any brother who visits his sister on this day and eats the food should have a long and wealthy life.
Since then, this day is celebrated as Bhai Dooj.
One another reason why Bhai Dooj is celebrated after Diwali is that Lord Krishna visited his sister Subhadra after killing the demon, Narakasura. Subhadra welcomed him by applying tilak on his forehead.
From that day onwards, the festival of Bhai Dooj began.
Bhai Dooj is similar to celebrating Raksha-Bandhan which commemorates the sacred bond of siblings.
Bhai Dooj – Celebrations in India
The celebrations of Bhai Dooj start with brothers visiting their sisters and sisters making them sit in a place decorated with flour rice to complete the ceremony. They apply tilak on their brother’s forehead, pray for their happy well-being and wish each other Happy Bhai Dooj. After performing Aarti, both brothers and sisters exchange gifts and the brothers vow to fulfil their sister’s wishes.
Bhai Dooj is similar to Raksha Bandhan.
It is celebrated across the country with great joy and enthusiasm.
Here is how it is celebrated in different states of the country.
Maharashtra
In Maharashtra and Goa, Bhai Dooj is known as Bhao Beej.
To celebrate Bhai Dooj , sisters make their brothers sit on the floor where they draw a square and consume a fruit named Karith.
Then, they apply Tilak on their brother’s forehead, perform aarti and pray for their well-being.
West Bengal
In west Bengal, the festival is known as “Bhai Phonta” where several rituals are performed.
To celebrate the day, sisters observe a fast until the ceremony is completed.
Tilak is applied on the forehead of their brothers which is made of sandalwood, Kajal, and ghee, and pray for their happy and prosperous life.
Bihar
The celebration of Bhai Dooj is quite different in Bihar than in other parts of the country.
On the eve of Bhai Dooj, the sister abuses their brothers to absolve the brother of their past sins.
During the ceremony, the sister applies tilak and offers sweets to their brothers.
Uttar Pradesh
When it comes to celebrating Bhai Dooj in Uttar Pradesh, the sisters apply tilak on her brother and offer him crystalized sugar and water.
Bhai Dooj Celebration in Nepal
Our neighbouring country Nepal also observes this beautiful festival.
Bhai Dooj is known as Bhai Tihar in Nepal.
Here, “Tihar” refers to Tilak which is applied on the forehead.
Apart from this, Bhai Dooj is also called Bhai teeka as sisters apply tilak on their brothers which comprises seven colours.
Then, they pray for a long and prosperous life.
Rituals of Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj is celebrated on the second day of the dark lunar fortnight with utmost customs and traditions.
- On the day of Bhai Dooj, the “Puja thali” i.e., the plate that sisters use to worship their brothers is decorated nicely. Moreover, it is a must to have vermillion, sandals, flowers, sweets and betel nuts.
- Sisters make their brothers sit on a place drawn in a square with rice and perform the ceremony.
- Brothers are applied tilak, and given fruits, betel nuts, and sweets after performing aarti on him.
- Once the tilak and aarti is done, the brothers give presents to their sisters and take a vow to protect her for life.
How to Celebrate Bhai Dooj?
- Narrate the story behind Bhai Dooj.
- Prepare a sacred thali with vermillion, rice, sweets, moli, and some sweets.
- Dress up in traditional clothes.
- Exchange gifts and invite your relatives and friends to celebrate this festival together.
Wrapping Up!!
Now you know why Bhai Dooj is celebrated after Diwali. Bhai Dooj is an auspicious day that celebrates the love, affection, and strong bond of brothers and sisters.
It is difficult to express the feelings, and emotions between siblings.
Bhai Dooj is one such occasion that allows us to define and express the love between siblings.
Sisters pray to god for their brother’s longevity, well-being and prosperity. So, think about the perfect gifts to exchange and Bhai Dooj wishes for your sister.
Happy Bhai Dooj!!!
Bhai Dooj Bhau Beej: A Festival of Love and Companionship
Hindus celebrate the everlasting love between a brother and a sister on Bhai Dooj or Bhau Beej.
To deepen their link, Bhau Beej defines the enduring affection between siblings. Sisters pray to God for their beloved brother’s long life, good health, and success on this fortunate day.
The Fable of Bhai Dooj
The Lord Yamraj Tragedy
According to ancient mythology, Lord Yamraj (the deity of death) visited his sister Yamuna on the “Shukla Paksha Dwitiya” during the Kartik month of the Hindu solar calendar.
She solemnly performed the aarti and put ’tilak’ on her brother’s forehead as a grand greeting. She offered the tasty food that she had specially made for Yamraj.
He then bestowed his blessings upon Yamuna in return. On this day, Lord Yamraj granted a boon promising that any brother who visited his sister would be granted the best health and fortune. Because of this, this day is also known as “Yam-Dwitiya.”
The Story of Lord Krishna
Another tale claims that Lord Krishna, after destroying the Demon King Narakasura, went to see his sister Subhadra on the second day following the new moon day.
Like Yamuna had lavishly welcomed Lord Yamraj, Subhadra performed the aarti, placed a tilak on his forehead, and showered him with flowers.
The Rituals
In India, Bhai Dooj or Bhau Beej is observed right after Diwali.
The sisters easily do the ceremonies. First, the numerous items—sandal, vermillion, betel nuts, flowers, and sweets—are arranged on a dish.
It is primarily a Hindu ritual for the sister to do an aarti on the brother.
The sister then places the tilak on the brother’s forehead while reciting a few hymns.
Finally, they exchange good wishes for a long and healthy life before exchanging gifts.
The ceremony is filled with great love and affection despite being brief and simple.
New Trends that Make Bhai Dooj Special
Although the current generation has been changes streamlined the process in their favor, grandparents and religious people still adhere to rigorous norms. Bhai Dooj is still celebrated for the same reason, although there have in how it is celebrated.
Giving gifts on the joyous occasion of Bhai Dooj is a major hassle. But, like Lord Krishna, brothers show their sisters an abundance of gifts.
So, likewise, sisters show their love and gratitude for everything their brothers do by giving them a gift.
You can easily make your sibling feel cherished with many online possibilities, like cakes, bouquets, grooming sets, cosmetic gift baskets, watches, and personalized gifts.
You owe them a day without arguments, just respect and admiration.
Although brothers and sisters create their own Bhau Beej stories every year, this was the tale that Lord Krishna told concerning the festival.
So, as you offer a prayer for an unending number of years to come and send each other good wishes for wealth, make this year special; make it count.
The festival, which brothers and sisters throughout India joyfully observe, is not only enjoyable but also represents spirituality.
Therefore, we should all try to preserve the Hindu ritual alive and intact by maintaining a balance between the two.
We are prepared to continue these legendary ceremonies indefinitely with the guidance of our mentors and masters.
This should also be the guiding principle. All that is required to make this day eternal and maintain the true essence of Bhai Dooj or Bhau Beej is a little ceremony, a little prayer, a lot of enjoyment, and a lot of gratitude.