Bhai Dooj or Bhaiya Dooj is celebrated on the second day of Diwali. The day is reminiscent of the sacred relationship shared between a brother and a sister. The sisters apply tilak on the foreheads of their brothers and pray for their prosperity and longevity.

According to the Vikram Samvat calendar (Hindi calendar), Bhai Dooj is celebrated on the second lunar day of the Shukla Paksha. In 2019, Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on 29 October (Tuesday).

However, there are no texts telling the official story related to the origin of Bhai Dooj. However, Lord Krishna visited his sister Subhadra, who welcomed him by applying tilak on her forehead. And since then, this day is celebrated as Bhai Dooj.

Another folklore states that on this day, Yamaraja, the lord of death, visited his sister, Yami, who welcomed him with flowers, sweets and applied tilak on his forehead. In return, the lord of death gave him a gift that reflected his affection for her.

Bhai Dooj (Northern India), Bhau Beej (in Maharashtra and Gujarat) or Bhai Fonta (Bengal) is similar to Raksha Bandhan. On this day, Indian women pray for the longevity and happiness of their brothers. The sisters apply tilak on their brothers' foreheads while praying for their safety. And in return, the men gift their sisters and promise to protect them.

Bhai Dooj celebrates the bond of brotherly love and marks the end of the five-day Diwali celebrations. It is known by many names across the country - Bhau Beej (in Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka), Bhatru Dwitiya, Bhau-Dej, Bhai Fota (in Bengal), and Naingol Chakuba (in Manipur), etc.

How to celebrate Bhai Dooj at home?

1. Describe the story behind Bhaiya Dooj.
2. Encourage your children to arrange a holy sac with molly, tilak, some grains of rice and some sweets.
3. Wear traditional clothes.
4. Inspire your children to make personalized cards and gifts for their siblings.
5. Celebrate this festival with your relatives and your loved ones.

This auspicious day celebrates the love, affection and respect you have shared with your siblings. It is also the right time to pray for the long life of your brother. Happy Bhai Dooj!