Bhai Dooj 2023: How Did This Ritual Begin? Know Interesting Story Behind It

According to the Puranas, it is said that on this day, Yamuna invited her brother Yama to her house for a meal

Bhai Dooj 2023

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Bhai Dooj Puja: Bhai Dooj is the final day of the five-day Diwali festival. It is celebrated on the second day of the bright fortnight of Kartik month. On this day, sisters apply tilak on their brothers' foreheads, praying for their long life and prosperity. This festival is also known as Bhai Dooj, Bhaiya Dooj, Yam Dwitiya, or Bhraatri Dwitiya.

According to the Puranas, it is said that on this day, Yamuna invited her brother Yama to her house for a meal. On Bhai Dooj, brothers also present gifts to their sisters as a gesture of goodwill. The day is also dedicated to the worship of Yamaraj, the god of death. Let's explore the origin of the Bhai Dooj tradition.

Legend says that Yama, the god of death, visited his sister Yamuna's home on Bhai Dooj day. This marked the beginning of the tradition of Bhai Dooj or Yam Dwitiya. Yamuna had invited Yama several times before he finally accepted her invitation. On this occasion, Yamuna arranged a meal for Yama and applied tilak on his forehead, wishing for his well-being.

When Yama asked Yamuna for a boon, she requested that he visit her on this day every year, and any sister who applies tilak on her brother's forehead on this day will be free from fear. Pleased with Yamuna's request, Yama granted her blessings. Since then, the tradition of celebrating Bhai Dooj began. On this day, taking a bath in the Yamuna River holds great significance, as it is believed to bring spiritual benefits to those celebrating Bhai Dooj.

Another mythological story associated with Bhai Dooj is about Lord Krishna and Subhadra. According to this story, Lord Krishna returned to Dwarka after defeating the demon Narakasura on the day of Bhai Dooj. His sister Subhadra welcomed him with fruits, flowers, sweets, and lit lamps. She applied tilak on Krishna's forehead and prayed for his long life. Since then, brothers and sisters exchange gifts and apply tilak on this auspicious day.