Bhai Dooj

Bhai Dooj or Bhau Beej known by different names in different parts of the country is a celebration of the bond of everlasting love and affection between a brother and his sister.

Bhai Dooj is basically the fourth and final day of the Diwali festivity.

On this day sisters pray for their brother by applying a red Tilak of Kumkum, and pray for the long life, peace and prosperity of the brother. This Tilak is an auspicious mark put on the forehead of the brothers and an Aarti is performed. The holy flame of the Diya is a mark of sisterly love that will protect the brother from all evil and obstacles in life.

In turn the sisters are pampered with lavish goodies from their brothers. Bhai Dooj is observed on the second day of the new moon, where “Bhai’ means brother and “Dooj” means second day post new moon. The day is named differently in different parts of India, like in northern India it is known as Bhai Dooj and in the eastern part of India, it is known as Bhai Phota.

Bhai Dooj or Bhau Beej Legend

Since this day falls on the Yama Dwitiya, the legend goes that Lord Yama, or the God of Death visits his sister Yami on this when she puts an auspicious mark on his forehead so that her brother stand protected and prays for his well-being. The belief hence goes that when a sister puts Tilak on the forehead of her brother on this day, he will never be hurled into hell and be protected from all evil and obstacles.

The other legend on this is that Lord Krishna, after slaying the Narakasura demon, goes to his sister Subhadra who welcomes him with the lamp, flowers and sweets, and puts the holy protective spot on her brother’s forehead.

Bhai Phota

In Bengal this event is called ‘Bhai Phota’, which is performed by the sister who religiously fasts until she applies a ‘phota’ or mark with sandalwood paste on her brother’s forehead, offers him sweets and gifts and prays for his long and healthy life.

Significance of Bhai Dooj

Bhai Dooj too has got a lot to do with family ties and social attachments. It serves as a good time, especially for a married girl, to get together with her own family, and share the post-Diwali glee. Nowadays, sisters who are unable to meet their brothers send their tika – the spot of protection – in an envelope by post.

Thanks To Satguru Bhagwan!!