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Bhai Dooj
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Bhai Dooj

religious observance
Also known as: Bhai Bij, Bhai Tika
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Quick Summary

Bhai Dooj is a Hindu festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, marking the culmination of the Diwali festivities. It is known by different names in various regions, such as Bhai Phonta in West Bengal and Bhau Beej in Maharashtra.1

The festival's origins are linked to the legend of Yama, the god of the dead, and his sister Yamuna. Yamuna longed for her brother's visit, and when he finally came, she celebrated by adorning him and serving him a feast. In gratitude, Yama blessed the day, declaring that brothers who visit their sisters and share a meal would be blessed with long life and protection from suffering.1

In contemporary celebrations, sisters apply a sacred mark (tilak or tika) to their brothers' foreheads, pray for their well-being, and offer sweets. Brothers, in turn, give gifts to their sisters and pledge to protect and care for them.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
3 Britannica Sources
  1. Raksha Bandhan: Top Questions
  2. Diwali and Beyond
  3. Diwali: Top Questions

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