Bhai Dooj: An occasion showing everlasting love and affection of brother and sister

Bhai Dooj or Bhau Beej known by various names in various parts of the country is a festival of the festivity of everlasting adoration and warmth between a brother and his sister.

Bhai Dooj is essentially the fourth and last day of the Diwali fun.

On this day sisters pray God for their sibling by applying a red Tilak of Kumkum and pray to God for the long life, peace and success of the sibling. This Tilak is a sign put on the forehead of the siblings and an Aarti is performed. The sacred fire of the Diya is a sign of genuine love that will protect the brother from all sinister and hindrances throughout everyday life.

Thus, the sisters are offered with sumptuous treats from their brothers. Bhai Dooj is seen on the second day of the new moon, where "Bhai' implies brother and "Dooj" implies second-day post new moon. The day is named distinctively in various parts of India, as in northern India it is known as Bhai Dooj and in the eastern piece of India, it is known as Bhai Phota.

Bhai Dooj or Bhau Beej Myth

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 a favourable mark on his forehead with a goal that her brother stand ensured and pray God for his success. The belief subsequently goes that when a sister puts Tilak on the brow of her brother on this day, he will never be thrown into hell and be shielded from all deceitful and hindrances.

The other legend on this is Lord Krishna, subsequent to killing the Narakasura evil spirit, goes to his sister Subhadra who invites him with the light, blooms and desserts, and puts the blessed defensive spot on her brother’s forehead.

Bhai Phota

In Bengal, this occasion is called 'Bhai Phota', which is performed by the sister who religiously fasts until the point that she applies a 'phota' or tilak with sandalwood paste on her brother’s forehead, offers him desserts and pray God for his long and sound life.

The significance of Bhai Dooj

Bhai Dooj too has a ton to do with family ties and social connections. It fills in as a decent time, particularly for a married young lady, to get together with her own family, and share the post-Diwali joy. These days, sisters who can't meet their brother send their tika – the spot of security – in an envelope by post.