Bhai Dooj
Guide to the date, history, cultural origins and celebration traditions of Bhai Dooj in India.
History & Origins of Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj (also known as Bhau Beej or Bhai Phota) marks the final day of the extensive five-day Diwali festival, celebrating the lifelong love between brothers and sisters. According to legend, the Lord of Death, Yamraj, visited his sister Yami on this day, and she welcomed him with a tilak and a feast, prompting him to declare that any brother who receives a tilak on this day will be blessed with long life.
How It Is Observed & Celebrated
Sisters apply a holy tilak on their brothers' foreheads, perform aarti, and serve a delicious home-cooked feast. Brothers offer thoughtful gifts and promise to protect their sisters. In West Bengal, it is celebrated with high fervor as Bhai Phota.
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