Bhai Dooj

Bhai Dhooj is one of the major festival celebrated on the fifth day of Deepwali. It falls on the second day after Deepwali that is on 'Shukla Paksha Dwitiya' in the Hindu month of 'Kartik'. Also known as Bhaiyya Duj, it is celebrated on large scale among the Hindu families in India. The festival is observed as the symbol of love that glorifies the beloved relationship between the brothers and sisters.

Bhai Dhooj is an age old tradition and the history attached to it quite interesting. According to the legends, the Yamraj (Hindu God of Death), visited his sister Yami on this day. Yami welcomed his brother by applying the tilak on his forehead. Yamraj was so pleased that he declared that anyone who receives teeka from his sister on the day of Bhai Dhooj will not receive the fury of hell. He also said the brothers who will have food with their sisters on this day will have a long and fruitful life.

There is another popular story according to which Lord Krishna, after killing the demon Narakasur, visited his sister Subhadra on the day of Bhai Dhooj. She welcomed Lord Krishna warmly and applied tilak on his forehead. From than custom become famous and was followed by other sisters also. Today it is a big festival celebrated by Hindus all over the world. Bhai Dhooj is celebrated as Bhaiyya Duj in north India, Bhav Bij in south India, Bhai Phota in West Bengal and Bhai Tika in Nepal.

On this day sisters apply sacred tikka on their brother's forehead and pray for the long life and well being of their brothers. They perform special pooja ceremonies for their brothers and offers them gola (coconut). In return brothers present gifts to their sisters and swear to protect them whenever needed. This day is very special for the sisters, when they receive utmost attention from their brothers.

In 2008, Bhai Dhooj or the Bhaiyya Duj will be celebrated on Thursday, 30th October.