Bhai Dooj 2024: The story of Yama and Yamuna—why siblings celebrate this sacred bond

Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhai Tika, Bhau Beej, Bhai Phota, or Bhratri Dwitiya, is all about celebrating that iconic sibling bond we all love (and sometimes love to hate). This year, the festival lights up Sunday, November 3. Rooted in tales from Hindu mythology, Bhai Dooj is a timeless tribute to sibling solidarity—whether it’s the OG sibling support system or our little modern-day fights over who gets the last piece of pizza.

Why do we celebrate Bhai Dooj?

The origins of Bhai Dooj go way back. There’s the popular tale of Yama, the God of Death, who came by to visit his sister Yamuna on this day. She welcomed him so warmly that Yama granted her a wish: an annual sibling reunion day, giving birth to Bhai Dooj. Another legend follows Lord Krishna, who visited his sister Subhadra after he defeated the demon Narakasura. She greeted him with sweets, flowers, and a tilak, making this occasion one to remember and inspiring the Bhai Dooj tradition.

Rituals with a twist??

Bhai Dooj rituals can vary by region, but the basics remain the same: sisters pray for their brothers' well-being, while brothers vow protection and shower their sisters with gifts. The aarti, a small ritual of gratitude and protection, is key. In West Bengal, Bhai Dooj, known as Bhai Phota, involves sisters fasting until they mark a phota with sandalwood on their brothers’ foreheads. In Maharashtra and Goa, it’s known as Bhau Beej, where the tradition stays colourful and food-filled.

Timing is everything

This year, the main Bhai Dooj rituals fall on November 3 during the auspicious Aparahna period, between 1:17 PM and 3:38 PM. The Dwitiya Tithi kicks off on November 2 at 8:21 PM and wraps up on November 3 at 10:05 PM. So, set those reminders and clear your schedule for some good ol’ sibling bonding.

Bhai Dooj celebrations across India??

Bhai Dooj is a sensory experience—think sisters cooking their brothers’ favourite foods, traditional sweets, and families gathering. Each region has its unique spin: in Manipur, it’s called ‘Ningol Chakuba’; in Goa, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, it’s ‘Bhau Beej’; in Nepal, it’s ‘Bhai Tika’; and in West Bengal, it’s ‘Bhai Phota.’ Despite the different names, the festive vibe is all about the same heartfelt connection.

So this Bhai Dooj, get ready for a day of sibling love, stories, laughter, and of course, those low-key sibling digs we can’t live without!