Bhaubeej, also known as Bhai Dooj, Bhai Tika, or Bhau-Beej, is a joyful Hindu festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. It is observed on the second day after Diwali, on the bright (Shukla) Trayodashi or Dwitiya of Kartik month (October–November).
🕉️ Spiritual and Cultural Significance
- Bhaubeej honors the sacred sibling relationship, symbolizing love, protection, and lifelong support.
- Sisters pray for their brothers’ long life, health, and prosperity, while brothers vow to protect their sisters.
- It celebrates the victory of good over evil, linked to legends of Lord Yama (God of death) visiting his sister Yamuna.
🙏 Bhaubeej Puja Rituals
- Preparation:
- Sisters prepare the puja thali with kumkum (vermilion), rice grains, sweets, diya (oil lamp), and fruits.
- Brothers and sisters wear clean and traditional clothes.
- Tika Ceremony:
- Sisters apply a special tilak (tika) on their brother’s forehead, often with a mixture of rice grains, vermilion, and sometimes sandalwood paste.
- The tika is considered a symbol of protection and blessings.
- Offering and Prayers:
- Sisters perform aarti for their brothers with a lit diya.
- Offer prayers invoking Lord Yama and Goddess Yamuna for the well-being of brothers.
- Exchange of Gifts and Sweets:
- Brothers give gifts or money to their sisters as a token of love and gratitude.
- Both share delicious sweets and meals.
- Family Gathering:
- The festival is marked by joyful family get-togethers, strengthening familial bonds.
🌼 Message of Bhaubeej
Bhaubeej celebrates sibling love, protection, and respect, emphasizing the importance of family ties and mutual care. It is a day to cherish the special relationship between brothers and sisters and seek blessings for their lifelong happiness.
