Significance
Bhai Dooj is the last day of the five-day Diwali festival. Sisters apply tilak on their brothers' foreheads and perform aarti; brothers give gifts. It strengthens the sibling bond.
Mythology & Legend
According to legend, Yama visited his sister Yamuna on this day. She applied tilak and fed him. Pleased, Yama declared that any brother who receives tilak and aarti from his sister on this day would be blessed with long life. The day is also called Yama Dwitiya.
Rituals & Observances
- Sisters invite brothers to their home or visit them.
- Sister performs aarti for the brother and applies tilak (roli and rice) on his forehead.
- Brother offers gifts and promises to protect the sister.
- Share a meal and sweets; exchange good wishes.
- If the brother is away, the sister can perform the ritual with a photograph or symbolically.
Sacred Mantras
ॐ यमाय नमः
oṃ yamāya namaḥ
Salutations to Yama
Traditional Foods
- ●Sweets
- ●Savouries
- ●Traditional meal
Regional Variations
North India(भाई दूज)
Tilak, aarti, gifts
Bengal(ভাই ফোটা)
Bhai Phota
Nepal(भाई टीका)
Bhai Tika
Do's & Don'ts
Do's
- ✓Perform aarti for brother
- ✓Apply tilak
- ✓Exchange gifts
- ✓Share a meal
Don'ts
- ✗Do not skip the ritual if possible
- ✗Avoid conflict
- ✗Do not forget siblings far away