Bhai Dooj 2024: Bhai Dooj is a beloved festival that celebrates the enduring love and bond between brothers and sisters, occurring annually just after Diwali. According to the Hindu calendar, it takes place on the second day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartik. This festival is known by various names across different regions in India, including Bhai Tika, Yam Dwitiya, and Bhatri Dwitiya, and it brings families together to honor sibling relationships through rituals steeped in historical and cultural significance.
On Bhai Dooj, it is customary for brothers to visit their sisters’ homes, where they share a meal and receive blessings for long life, happiness, and prosperity. To fully appreciate the importance of Bhai Dooj, one can explore the mythology and religious beliefs associated with this special day.
The origins of Bhai Dooj are rooted in a compelling myth involving Lord Yamraj, the God of Death, and his sister, Yamuna. According to ancient tales, Lord Surya (the Sun God) and Goddess Sangya had two children: Yamraj, their son, and Yamuna, their daughter. As they matured, Yamraj established his realm, Yampuri, while Yamuna resided in Golok.
After a long period without visiting his sister, Yamraj learned from Maharishi Narad about Yamuna’s sadness. He decided to visit her on the Dwitiya Tithi (the second day) of Shukla Paksha in the Kartik month. Upon his arrival, Yamuna was filled with joy and welcomed him with warmth, offering him a bath, worship, and a feast of delicious dishes. Moved by her love and hospitality, Yamraj granted her a boon.
In her devotion, Yamuna requested that Yamraj visit her each year on this day and that any sister who honors her brother and applies tilak to his forehead would be free from the fear of Yamraj’s judgment. Yamraj granted her this boon and presented her with clothes and jewelry as tokens of his affection.
Thus, the tradition of celebrating Bhai Dooj on Kartik Shukla Dwitiya was established, with siblings worshipping Yamraj and Yamuna on this auspicious day. It is believed that the tilak applied by the sister bestows blessings, ensuring her brother’s long life and protection. Additionally, sharing a meal at the sister’s home is thought to enhance the brother’s lifespan, strengthen family bonds, and foster mutual affection.
Bhai Dooj is more than a series of rituals; it embodies the love and connection between brothers and sisters. Through enduring traditions, families come together to reaffirm their bonds in meaningful and heartfelt ways.
