KarmaVaaniFestival · October–November
Bhai Dooj
Also known as Bhau Beej, Bhai Phonta, Yama Dwitiya
Sisters pray for their brothers’ long life on the second day after Diwali.
On the Shukla Dwitiya of Kartika, sisters apply a tilak to their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their long life, remembering Yamuna welcoming her brother Yama. Brothers give gifts and share a meal at their sister’s home. In Bengal the day is Bhai Phonta, in Maharashtra Bhau Beej.
Why it is kept
Like Raksha Bandhan, it strengthens the bond between brothers and sisters.
Step by step
How to observe it
Apply the tilak
The sister applies tilak, performs aarti and offers a sweet.
Share a meal
The brother visits his sister and eats at her home.
Customs differ between regions, communities and families. Where your family or temple has its own way, follow it.
Fasting
Fasting
Sisters often eat after the tilak ceremony.
Fasts should suit your health. Children, elders, pregnant women and anyone unwell or on medication should eat, or keep a lighter fast; that is the tradition, not an exception to it.
Traditions
- Tilak ceremony
- A meal at the sister’s home
- Exchanging gifts
पूजा सामग्री
