Happy Bhai Dooj 

 

Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhai Phota or Bhau Beej, is a Hindu festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. It is observed on the second day after Diwali, which falls on the last day of the five-day Diwali festival. The festival holds special significance in Indian culture and is celebrated with enthusiasm and joy.

Why we celebrate Bhai Dooj:

• Symbolizes Sibling Bond: Bhai Dooj is a celebration of the special bond between brothers and sisters. It is a day when siblings come together to strengthen their relationship and express their love and affection for each other.
• Legend of Yama and Yamuna: According to Hindu mythology, the festival is linked to the legend of Yama, the god of death, and his sister Yamuna. When Yama visited his sister after a long time, Yamuna welcomed him with love and applied a tilak (vermilion mark) on his forehead. Yama, in return, gave her a special boon that whoever receives a tilak on this day would be blessed and protected from death.
  

How we celebrate Bhai Dooj:

• Tilak and Aarti: The highlight of Bhai Dooj celebrations is the tilak ceremony. Sisters apply a tilak on their brothers' foreheads, usually made of sandalwood paste, kumkum, and rice. This tilak symbolizes the sister's prayers for her brother's well-being and long life. Sisters may also perform aarti (a ritual of waving a lamp) for their brothers.
• Exchange of Gifts: It is customary for brothers to give gifts to their sisters as a token of love and appreciation. These gifts can include sweets, clothing, jewelry, or other items that the sister may like.
• Feasting: Families often come together to celebrate Bhai Dooj with a special meal. Sisters may prepare their brothers' favorite dishes, and the entire family shares in the festive atmosphere.
• Quality Time: Bhai Dooj is also a time for siblings to spend quality time together. Brothers and sisters often reminisce about childhood memories, share laughter, and strengthen their emotional bond.
• Traditional Rituals: In some regions, specific rituals and customs may vary. However, the underlying theme of expressing love and strengthening the sibling bond remains constant.

Bhai Dooj is a beautiful celebration that reinforces the importance of family bonds and the unique relationship between brothers and sisters. It is a time for joy, love, and the reaffirmation of the special connection that siblings share.