Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhau-Beej, Bhaiya Dooj, or Bhau Dooj, is a special Hindu festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. In 2025, Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on Thursday, 23 October, marking the end of the five-day Diwali festival.
This day is dedicated to honoring the love, care, and protection shared between siblings and is celebrated across India with joy, prayers, and traditional rituals.
Significance of Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj celebrates the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. On this day:
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Sisters pray for the long life and prosperity of their brothers.
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Brothers promise to protect and support their sisters throughout life.
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The festival reinforces family values, love, and sibling responsibility.
The occasion is similar to Raksha Bandhan, but while Raksha Bandhan focuses on tying the protective thread, Bhai Dooj is celebrated after Diwali with a ritualistic puja and festive meals.
Bhai Dooj 2025 Date and Muhurat
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Bhai Dooj Date: Thursday, 23 October 2025
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Bhai Dooj Tithi Begins: 23 October 2025 – 04:20 AM
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Bhai Dooj Tithi Ends: 23 October 2025 – 04:55 PM
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Auspicious Puja Muhurat: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM (approx.)
Performing the Bhai Dooj puja during the muhurat is considered highly auspicious for siblings’ well-being and long life.
Bhai Dooj Rituals and Traditions
1. Tika Ceremony
Sisters apply a tilak (Tika) on their brothers’ foreheads, symbolizing blessings for their long life and protection from evil.
2. Offering Sweets and Gifts
Sisters prepare delicious sweets and gifts for their brothers. Common items include ladoos, barfi, chocolate boxes, and dry fruits.
3. Brother’s Promise of Protection
Brothers bless their sisters in return and promise to protect them and provide support throughout life.
4. Family Feasts and Celebrations
The day is marked by family gatherings, festive meals, and prayers, reinforcing family bonds.
5. Regional Variations
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In Maharashtra, the day is called Bhau Beej.
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In North India, it is Bhai Dooj, with sisters performing Yagna and Puja.
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In West Bengal, it is celebrated as Bhai Phota.
Mythological Story
According to Hindu mythology:
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After defeating Narakasura, Lord Krishna visited his sister Subhadra. She welcomed him with tilak and aarti, offering sweets and gifts. Krishna blessed her in return, and this tradition continues as Bhai Dooj.
The festival celebrates love, care, and familial duty, strengthening sibling relationships.
How to Celebrate Bhai Dooj 2025
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Start the day with Tilak ceremony and aarti.
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Share homemade sweets and gifts with your brother or sister.
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Spend quality time together, reinforcing your bond.
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Encourage family members to pray for each other’s health and prosperity.
Spiritual Message
Bhai Dooj teaches the importance of family, love, and protection. It reminds us that strong bonds among siblings create a supportive and harmonious family environment, which is vital for personal and social well-being.
Conclusion
Bhai Dooj 2025, celebrated on 23 October, is a beautiful culmination of the Diwali festivities. By performing rituals, sharing sweets, and expressing love and blessings, siblings strengthen their bond and bring joy, harmony, and prosperity into their families.
Celebrate this Bhai Dooj by honoring your brother or sister and cherishing the sacred bond of sibling love.
