India is called the land of festivals. Every festival has its own importance but Diwali, the festival of lights is the most important festival of Hindus. It is celebrated for five continuous days. The festival starts with Dhanteras followed by a number of festivals in a row and ends with the most awaited festivals of sisters, Bhai Dooj. This is the festival which is also known as Bhathru Dwithiya and Bhau Beej. Bhai Dooj is considered an event of good cheer and exchange of good wishes among brother and sisters. This is the day when sisters convey their feeling of love and respect to their brothers.
How Bhai Dooj is Celebrated all across the Country?
Bhai Dooj is a festival that is very similar to Raksha Bandhan. Both brothers and sisters are very excited on this day. Girls wear new colorful dresses and arranges for a special Puja Thali. The festival celebration begins with the Tilak ceremony. The sisters put Tilak on the forehead of their brothers and offer sweets to them. In return the brothers also offer various gifts to their sisters. On this auspicious day, sisters pray for long and happy life of their brothers. This festival is enjoyed by each and every member of the family and especially by children as they get new clothes and sweets.
Story Behind the Bhai Dooj Celebrations
There are many myths related to this festival. It is believed that on this propitious day, Yamraj, better known as the Lord of the death went to his sister’s house, Yami where she put a tika on his forehead and prayed for his long and prosper life. Another very popular story that is related with Bhai Dooj is about Lord Krishna. He went to his sister, Subhadra after killing Narakasura where Lord Krishna was welcomed with flowers and sweets followed by tika ceremony. Since then Bhai Dooj is celebrated all over India. The festival is celebrated with different customs and tradition in different parts of the country.