Bhai Dooj | Sister's Prayer - Exchange of Gifts - Tilak and Tika - Symbolic Rituals - Traditional Puja - Legend and Mythology - Significance of Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj: Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhai Phota in Bengal, Bhai Teeka in Nepal, and Yama Dwitiya, is a Hindu festival that celebrates the special bond between brothers and sisters. It is observed on the second day of the bright fortnight or Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartika, which usually falls two days after Diwali. Bhai Dooj is similar to Raksha Bandhan but has its unique rituals and customs. Key Traditions and Customs: 1. Sister's Prayer: On Bhai Dooj, sisters pray for the well-being, success, and long life of their brothers. They perform aarti (a ritual of waving a lighted lamp) and apply a tilak on their brother's forehead. 2. Exchange of Gifts: Sisters prepare special dishes and sweets for their brothers. Brothers, in return, give gifts to their sisters as a token of love and appreciation. 3. Tilak and Tika: Sisters mark a tilak on their brother's forehead using vermillion, rice, and yogurt. This tilak is believed to bring blessings and protection. 4. Symboli...