Bhai Dooj: A Celebration of Sibling Bond
Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhau Beej, Bhai Phonta, or Bhratri Dwitiya, is a Hindu festival celebrated on the second lunar day of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) of the Kartika month, which falls between October and November. The festival is observed by Hindus all over India, Nepal, and Mauritius, with varying regional traditions. In this year, Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on 15th November, 2023 (Wednesday).
The festival marks the culmination of the five-day Diwali celebrations and is dedicated to strengthening the bond between brothers and sisters.
👉 Bhai Dooj: the story according to Hindu Mythology
According to Hindu mythology, the festival of Bhai Dooj is celebrated to commemorate the reunion of Yama, the God of death, and his sister Yami, also known as Yamauna. It is believed that on this day, Yama visited his sister, and she applied tilak (vermilion) on his forehead, symbolizing her love and affection for him. In return, Yama blessed his sister with long life and prosperity. Hence, the festival serves as a reminder of the enduring love and protection that siblings share.
👉 Rituals and Traditions of Bhai Dooj
The celebrations of Bhai Dooj revolve around various rituals that symbolize the love and affection between siblings. On this day, sisters prepare a special puja (offering) for their brothers, which typically include sweets, fruits, flowers, and a tika, a traditional mark applied on the forehead.
The sisters lovingly apply the tika (tilak/ vermilion) to their brothers' foreheads while chanting prayers for their well-being, longevity, and prosperity. In return, brothers give gifts and blessings to their sisters.
Another important ritual is the offering of water to the sun god, Surya, which is believed to bring good health and blessings for brothers. Sisters also prepare a feast for their brothers, signifying their love and care.
👉 Significance of Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj holds immense significance in Hindu culture, as it underscores the unbreakable bond between siblings. It is a day to express gratitude for the love, support, and protection that siblings provide throughout life. The festival also promotes strong family values and fosters a sense of togetherness.
👉 The Spirit of Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj is more than just a religious festival; it is a celebration of the special connection between brothers and sisters. It is a day to cherish the memories of shared childhood experiences, to strengthen the bond of love and affection, and to reaffirm the importance of siblings in one's life.
In fact, Bhai Dooj is a joyous occasion celebrated with great enthusiasm across India andd other parts of the world with significant Hindu populations. Families gather to exchange gifts, share meals, and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. The festival is a reminder of the importance of sibling love and the sacred connection between brothers and sisters.
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