Bhai Dooj 2024: Bhai Dooj, a cherished festival symbolizing the enduring love and bond between brothers and sisters, is celebrated annually just after Diwali. According to the Hindu calendar, it falls on the second day of Shukla Paksha in the Kartik month. Known by various names across different regions in India, such as Bhai Tika, Yam Dwitiya, and Bhatri Dwitiya, this festival brings families together to honor the sibling bond with rituals that have deep-rooted historical and cultural significance.
On Bhai Dooj, brothers traditionally visit their sisters' homes, sharing a meal and receiving blessings for long life, happiness, and prosperity. To understand the importance of Bhai Dooj, let’s explore the mythology and religious beliefs associated with this special day.
The Mythological Origins: Yamraj and Yamuna
The story of Bhai Dooj traces back to a powerful myth involving Lord Yamraj, the God of Death, and his sister, Yamuna. According to ancient lore, Lord Surya (the Sun God) and Goddess Sangya had two children: Yamraj, the son, and Yamuna, the daughter. As they grew, Yamraj established his abode, Yampuri, while Yamuna resided in Golok.
Yamraj had not visited his sister for a long time, which saddened both siblings. Learning about this from Maharishi Narad, Yamraj decided to visit Yamuna on the Dwitiya Tithi (the second day) of Shukla Paksha in the Kartik month. When Yamraj arrived, Yamuna was overjoyed. She welcomed him warmly, offering him a bath, worshipping him, and preparing a feast of delicious dishes to honor him. Pleased by her love and hospitality, Yamraj granted her a boon.
The Boon of Protection and Blessings for Siblings
Yamuna, in her devotion, requested that Yamraj visit her each year on this day and that any sister who, like her, honors her brother and applies tilak to his forehead should be free from the fear of Yamraj’s judgment. Yamraj blessed her with this boon and, in return, gifted her clothes and jewelry as tokens of his affection.
Thus, the tradition of celebrating Bhai Dooj on Kartik Shukla Dwitiya began, with siblings worshipping Yamraj and Yamuna on this auspicious day. It is believed that the sister’s tilak bestows blessings, ensuring her brother’s long life and protection. Furthermore, having meal at the sister's home is thought to enhance the brother’s lifespan, strengthen family bonds, and increase mutual affection.
Bhai Dooj is a celebration that transcends rituals and customs, embodying the love and connection between brothers and sisters. Through centuries-old traditions, families come together, reaffirming their bonds in meaningful ways.
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