During the five continuous days of the Diwali festival, Dhanteras, Narak Chaturdashi, Dipawali, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj are celebrated. On Bhai Dooj, the worship of brothers takes place. Bhai Dooj is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to the sacred relationship between brothers and sisters. This holy festival is celebrated on the second day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartik. But do you know why this festival is celebrated? Let’s explore the story behind it.
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Story of Bhai Dooj
The tale of Bhai Dooj is associated with Lord Krishna and his sister Subhadra. According to the legend, after defeating the demon Narakasura, Lord Krishna visited his sister Subhadra, who welcomed him with an aarti, applied a tilak on his forehead, and offered him sweets. Lord Krishna blessed her and promised to protect her, laying the foundation for this festival. Subhadra expressed her wishes for his long life and prosperity. Seeing his sister’s love, Lord Krishna granted a boon that any brother who celebrates Bhai Dooj at his sister’s home will attain longevity and prosperity. He also declared that any sister who observes a fast and welcomes her brother will gain the same blessings for her brother’s long life and prosperity. Thus, Bhai Dooj is dedicated to the sacred relationship between Lord Krishna and Subhadra, providing an opportunity to strengthen the bond between brothers and sisters.
Another Tale
Another story is linked to Yama, the God of Death, and his sister Yamuna. According to religious beliefs, Yama visited his sister Yamuna on this day, and she welcomed him with aarti and a tilak. Pleased by her affection, Yama proclaimed that any brother who receives a tilak from his sister on this day would be blessed with a long and prosperous life. This is why this day is also known as “Yam Dwitiya.”
How to Perform Bhai Dooj Puja?
First, women wake up before sunrise, bathe, and wear clean clothes, then clean their homes. In the evening, they set up a chowki or seat for worship. They mix rice and turmeric, applying it to their brother’s forehead. Next, they apply kumkum for the tilak, and place flowers, fruits, and sweets at the worship area. After lighting a diya, they have their brother sit at the worship site and wash his feet. They then give gifts to their brother and pray for his long life and prosperity. Finally, they share a meal together.
Things to Keep in Mind While Observing the Fast
If you are observing the Bhai Dooj fast for your brother, wake up before sunrise, bathe, and wear clean clothes. During the fast, focus on consuming only fruits and water. In the evening, after worshiping your brother upon his arrival, you may break your fast.