What is Bhai Dooj?

Bhai Dooj is a Hindu festival celebrated on the fifth day of Diwali. It is also known as Bhai Tika, Bhai Phonta, or Bhau Beej in different parts of India. This festival celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters pray for the long life and prosperity of their brothers and apply a tilak on their forehead. Brothers, in turn, give gifts to their sisters and promise to protect them from all harm.

When is Bhai Dooj 2024?

Bhai Dooj 2024 will be celebrated on November 1, 2024, which is the fifth day of Diwali. It falls on the second day of the bright fortnight or Shukla Paksha of the Hindu month of Kartik.

How is Bhai Dooj Celebrated?

Bhai Dooj is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy all over India. Sisters wake up early in the morning, take a holy bath, and perform puja. They prepare delicious sweets and dishes for their brothers and decorate the house with flowers and rangoli. Brothers visit their sisters’ homes and receive a warm welcome. Sisters apply tilak on their forehead, perform aarti, and offer sweets and gifts. Brothers, in turn, give gifts to their sisters and promise to protect them from all harm.

What is the Significance of Bhai Dooj?

Bhai Dooj celebrates the special bond between brothers and sisters. It signifies the love, affection, and respect that siblings have for each other. It is believed that on this day, Yamraj, the god of death, visited his sister Yami, who put a tilak on his forehead and prayed for his well-being. Yamraj was pleased with her love and affection and granted her a boon that whoever receives a tilak from his sister on this day will be blessed with a long and prosperous life.

How to Make Bhai Dooj Special?

Bhai Dooj is a special occasion for brothers and sisters. To make it more special, you can plan a surprise for your sibling, such as organizing a small party or outing. You can also gift them something that they have been wanting for a long time. If you are unable to meet your sibling in person, you can send them a personalized gift or a heartfelt message expressing your love and affection.

Bhai Dooj in Different Parts of India

Bhai Tika in Nepal

In Nepal, Bhai Dooj is known as Bhai Tika. It is celebrated on the same day as in India, but the rituals and customs are slightly different. Sisters apply tilak on their brothers’ forehead with a mixture of seven colors and offer them sweets and gifts. Brothers, in turn, give gifts to their sisters and promise to protect them from all harm.

Bhai Phonta in West Bengal

In West Bengal, Bhai Dooj is known as Bhai Phonta. It is celebrated on the last day of the Bengali month of Kartik, which falls in October or November. Sisters apply tilak on their brothers’ forehead and offer them sweets and gifts. Brothers, in turn, give gifts to their sisters and promise to protect them from all harm.

Bhau Beej in Maharashtra

In Maharashtra, Bhai Dooj is known as Bhau Beej. It is celebrated on the second day of the bright fortnight or Shukla Paksha of the Hindu month of Kartik, which falls in October or November. Sisters apply tilak on their brothers’ forehead and offer them sweets and gifts. Brothers, in turn, give gifts to their sisters and promise to protect them from all harm.

Conclusion

Bhai Dooj is a special occasion that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. It is a time to express love, affection, and respect for each other. On this day, sisters pray for the long life and prosperity of their brothers, and brothers promise to protect them from all harm. It is a festival that brings families together and strengthens the bond between siblings. So, let us celebrate Bhai Dooj with joy and happiness and make it a memorable occasion for our loved ones.

Question and Answer

Q. What is the significance of Bhai Dooj?

A. Bhai Dooj celebrates the special bond between brothers and sisters. It signifies the love, affection, and respect that siblings have for each other.

Q. How is Bhai Dooj celebrated?

A. Bhai Dooj is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy all over India. Sisters apply tilak on their brothers’ forehead, perform aarti, and offer sweets and gifts. Brothers, in turn, give gifts to their sisters and promise to protect them from all harm.

Q. When is Bhai Dooj 2024?

A. Bhai Dooj 2024 will be celebrated on November 1, 2024, which is the fifth day of Diwali.