Sun Nov 03 16:53:30 UTC 2024: ## Bhai Dooj 2024: Celebrate the Bond of Brother and Sister on November 3rd
**New Delhi, India** – Bhai Dooj, the festival celebrating the special bond between brothers and sisters, will be observed on **November 3, 2024**. This auspicious day, also known as Bhratru Dwitiya, will see sisters perform a special ritual of applying tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, praying for their long and prosperous lives.
This year, the auspicious time for applying the tilak falls between **1:10 PM and 3:22 PM** on November 3rd.
The festival’s significance stems from a beautiful legend involving Yama, the god of death, and his sister Yamuna. According to the tale, Yamuna, following her brother’s advice, welcomed him with love and respect, offering him food and applying tilak. This act of affection pleased Yama, who granted her a boon – anyone who performs this ritual on Bhai Dooj will be blessed with prosperity and protection from harm.
The rituals on Bhai Dooj involve a special puja, where sisters offer gifts like sweets, clothes, and a sacred thread (kalaava) to their brothers. They then apply tilak, consisting of rolli (vermilion), and rice grains on their brothers’ foreheads while chanting mantras for their well-being. The day concludes with a festive meal shared between siblings.
Bhai Dooj is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, particularly in the northern and eastern parts. This festival beautifully embodies the deep connection between brothers and sisters, fostering a sense of love, care, and protection.
First Piper 