Bhai Dooj: Celebrating the Timeless Bond of Brothers and Sister

Indians celebrate Bhai Dooj to honor the special bond between brothers and sisters. This festival, also called Bhaiya Dooj, usually falls two days after Diwali and has cultural and religious significance, especially among Hindus. It celebrates the love, protection, and blessings shared between siblings.

Mythological Origins

The roots of Bhai Dooj trace back to Hindu mythology. One popular legend is about Yamraj, the god of death, who visited his sister Yamuna on this day. She warmly welcomed him with a ceremonial aarti, applied a tilak (mark) on his forehead, and prayed for his well-being. Touched by her love, Yamraj declared that any brother who receives a tilak from his sister on this day would be blessed with long life and prosperity. Since then, Bhai Dooj has been celebrated in honor of this sibling bond, with sisters praying for their brothers’ longevity and happiness.

Bhai Dooj Traditions

On Bhai Dooj, sisters perform a ritual where they apply a tilak or tika on their brothers’ foreheads, perform an aarti (ritual of waving a small fire), and offer sweets. In return, brothers give gifts to their sisters and promise to protect them. This ritual strengthens family bonds and celebrates the role siblings play in each other’s lives.