Bhai Dooj is a festival that emphasizes the value of family ties and the unwavering support that siblings provide one another throughout their lives.
The important Hindu holiday of Bhai Dooj, or Bhai Phota in Bengal, honors the relationship between brothers and sisters. Two days after Diwali, it has great cultural and emotional significance in India. The term “Bhai Dooj” comes from the words “Bhai,” which means brother, and “Dooj,” which denotes the festival’s second day following the new moon. Sisters show their love and affection for their brothers on this auspicious day by performing aarti for them, applying a tilak (vermillion mark) on their foreheads, and tying a protecting thread around their wrists.
This act of symbolic giving expresses a sister’s wish for her brother’s long life and well-being. Brothers promise presents and lifetime protection and support in exchange. The conclusion of the grand festivities that span five days is marked by the arrival of Bhai Dooj, signifying the closure of the Diwali celebrations.
Hindu scriptures are rich with references to Bhai Dooj’s mythical origins. A famous mythology states that on this day, Yama, the god of death, paid a visit to his sister Yamuna. Yama, touched by Yamuna’s hospitality and love, bestowed a tilak on her brother’s forehead. Yamuna’s brother would be blessed with a long and prosperous life if he receives an aarti and tilak from their sister on this day.
Across the various regions of India, diverse practices and rituals observed during Bhai Dooj exhibit a rich tapestry of cultural diversity, each region contributing its unique essence, thereby enriching the festival with an array of cultural nuances and traditions. In certain places, sisters cook special meals for their brothers, and in other places, families get together to celebrate holidays. Siblings’ emotional ties are strengthened by the ceremonial tilak, gifts, and candies exchanged.
In addition to enhancing the relationship between brothers and sisters, this festival brings the family as a whole closer and more cohesive.
Bhai Dooj Greetings:
“Here’s to your days, teeming with never-ending delight and a life blossoming with vibrant energy and thriving abundance…”
“I thank God for a brother as amazing as you and pray for your constant company, day and night”
“Throughout this festive, my deepest hope is for your ongoing health and strength, making this celebration eternally dear as the most heartfelt Bhai Dooj memory.”
“Throughout this Bhai Dooj, my deepest hope is for your ongoing health and strength, making this celebration eternally dear as the most heartfelt Bhai Dooj memory.”
“I deeply value having a sister as invaluable as you, a treasure beyond measure. Here’s to celebrating Bhai Dooj!.”