Bhai Dooj, also known as “Bhau Beej,” “Bhratri Dwitiya,” or “Yam Dwitiya,” is an important Indian festival symbolizing the love and devotion between brothers and sisters. It is celebrated two days after Diwali, on the second day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Kartik. This festival is primarily observed in North India, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.
Bhai Dooj 2025 Date
In 2025, Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on 23 October 2025 (Thursday).
This festival is observed two days after Diwali and is also known as Bhai-Dooj, Bhau-Beej, or Bhatru Dvitiya.
Mythological Significance of Bhai Dooj
There are several mythological stories associated with Bhai Dooj, the most popular being related to Yamraj (the God of Death) and his sister Yamanaji. It is believed that on this day, Yamraj visited his sister Yamanaji, who welcomed him with a loving meal. In return, Yamraj blessed her with the promise of protection. This tradition evolved into the practice where brothers visit their sisters' homes on this day and vow to protect them. This day is also known as “Yam Dwitiya.
Rituals of Celebrating Bhai Dooj
On Bhai Dooj, sisters perform rituals for their brothers, wishing for their long life. Here’s a brief outline of the Bhai Dooj puja process:
- Bath and Preparation: After taking a bath in the morning, sisters prepare a puja thali containing items like roli (red powder), rice, a lamp (diya), sweets, and coconut.
- Tika and Aarti: Brothers are seated on a platform, and sisters apply tika on their foreheads, sprinkle rice (akshat), and perform Aarti. Usually, roli or turmeric is used for the tika.
- Food and Sweets: After the tika, sisters feed their brothers sweets and specially prepared meals.
- Exchange of Gifts: Brothers give gifts to their sisters, while sisters pray for the well-being and long life of their brothers.
- Aarti for Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna: Sisters also perform Aarti for Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna as part of the celebration.
Importance of Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj is not just a religious ritual; it is a day that strengthens the bond between siblings. Sisters wish for their brothers' long life, while brothers vow to protect their sisters.
Other Names and Practices of Bhai Dooj
- Bhau Beej (Maharashtra): In Maharashtra, it is celebrated as Bhau Beej, where sisters apply tika on their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their longevity.
- Bhratri Dwitiya (North India): In Northern India, this festival is called Bhratri Dwitiya, where sisters pray for their brothers' long life and prosperity.
- Yam Dwitiya: This name signifies the dedication of the day to Yamraj, and worshipping Yamanaji on this day enhances the sweetness in the brother-sister relationship.
Difference Between Bhai Dooj and Raksha Bandhan
Both Raksha Bandhan and Bhai Dooj are dedicated to the sibling relationship, but they differ in their rituals. On Raksha Bandhan, sisters tie a rakhi (sacred thread) on their brothers’ wrists, and brothers vow to protect them. In contrast, Bhai Dooj involves the rituals of tika application and blessings.
Special Rituals on Bhai Dooj
Many people also worship Yamraj on Bhai Dooj to seek protection from untimely death and to invoke prosperity in life. There is a tradition of offering lamps (deep dan) to Yamraj on this day.
Bhai Dooj reflects the sweetness of the brother-sister relationship and their mutual affection. This festival familiarizes us with the values of Indian culture, where respect and honor for relationships are paramount.
