Every year, on the second day (Dwitiya) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartik, the festival of Bhai Dooj is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. Known also as “Yama Dwitiya,” this festival signifies the strong bond between brothers and sisters. On this special day, sisters apply a sacred tilak on their brothers' foreheads and pray for their long life, prosperity, and happiness.
**Why is Bhai Dooj Celebrated?**
Have you ever wondered why Bhai Dooj is celebrated? Let’s explore the mythological stories and significance behind this festival.
According to Hindu mythology, Bhai Dooj is associated with two main legends. One relates to Lord Krishna, the protector of the universe, who visited his sister Subhadra after defeating the demon Narakasura. Upon meeting, Subhadra welcomed Krishna with great affection by applying tilak, offering him a garland, and treating him to sweets. She also prayed for his long and prosperous life. This beautiful moment between the siblings is one of the reasons Bhai Dooj is celebrated.
**Mythological Significance of Yama Dwitiya**
In Hindu scriptures, another story associated with Bhai Dooj involves Lord Yama, the God of Death, and his sister Yamuna. It is said that on the second day of Kartik Shukla Paksha, Yamuna invited her brother Yama to her home, where she warmly welcomed him, offered him food, and performed a tilak ritual. Pleased with his sister’s hospitality and love, Yama blessed her and promised that anyone who visits their sister on this day will have their wishes fulfilled and enjoy a prosperous and fortunate life. This momentous day marked the beginning of the Bhai Dooj tradition.
**Bhai Dooj Date and Time**
According to the Hindu Panchang (calendar), the Dwitiya Tithi of Kartik Krishna Paksha begins on the evening of November 2, 2024, at 8:21 PM and ends on November 3, 2024. Therefore, this year’s Bhai Dooj festival will be celebrated on Sunday, November 3, 2024. This special occasion reaffirms the bond of love, protection, and mutual respect between brothers and sisters. Celebrating Bhai Dooj not only strengthens this beautiful sibling relationship but also embodies the spirit of family ties in Indian culture.
Bhai Dooj Auspicious Timings (Bhai Dooj Tilak Timings)
- Afternoon Muhurat - From 1:10 PM to 3:22 PM
- Brahma Muhurat - From 4:51 AM to 5:43 AM
- Vijay Muhurat - From 1:54 PM to 2:38 PM
- Godhuli Muhurat - From 5:34 PM to 6:00 PM
Performing the Bhai Dooj tilak during these timings is considered highly auspicious.