The significance of Bhai Dooj and its celebration

Written by-Mohini Sharma, 14 Nov 2023

Introduction

Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhau Beej, is a Hindu festival celebrated annually in India, Nepal and other parts of South Asia. It is celebrated a day after Diwali by sisters putting a tika on the forehead of their brothers and praying for their long and prosperous lives. Bhai Dooj celebrates the loving bond between brother and sister.

The festival finds its origin in mythology. As per one legend, Yamraj, the God of Death, visits his sister Yamuna on Kartik Dwitiya. Yamuna welcomes Yamraj with aarti, tilak and gifts. Pleased with her affection and respect, Yamraj blesses her that those who celebrate Raksha Bandhan or Bhai Dooj in her honor would be protected from untimely death. Another legend says that Lord Krishna visited his sister Subhadra on this day, after killing the demon Narakasura. Subhadra welcomed Krishna by performing aarti. Krishna blessed her and promised to always protect her from all troubles. Since then, this day is celebrated as Bhai Dooj.

Celebrations and Rituals

On this day, sisters pray for their brother's long life and prosperity by performing the aarti. They apply tika on their brother's forehead and give them gifts. In return, brothers give gifts and promise to protect their sisters always. Sisters prepare delicious sweets like ladoos, halwa and kheer for their brothers. They also prepare snacks like samosas and pakoras. The rituals involve lighting diyas and candles, decorating the house with rangoli, performing puja and exchanging gifts between siblings. It is a day to strengthen the bond of love and trust between brother and sister.

Trends and Significance in Modern Times

Though rooted in tradition, Bhai Dooj celebrations are evolving with modern trends. Sisters not living with brothers send e-cards and video calls to wish them. Long distance brothers send gifts via courier. Working professionals organize get-togethers on weekends before or after Bhai Dooj. Social media platforms are flooded with #BhaiDooj posts and pictures. The festival is a reminder that though siblings may be physically apart, the bond of love remains strong. It emphasizes nurturing relationships and protecting family ties even in fast-paced urban lives.

Conclusion

Bhai Dooj celebrates the special bond between brother and sister. Sisters pray for their brothers' well-being and long life. Brothers promise to stand by their sisters through thick and thin. The festival is a perfect example of how traditions evolve with the times, yet retain their deep emotional significance. It is a day to express gratitude, strengthen family ties and spread the message of love, trust and togetherness.

This blog covers the history, traditions, modern trends and significance of the sibling bond celebrated on Bhai Dooj. It includes key details about the festival's origins in mythology and how celebrations have adapted to changing times while retaining cultural essence.