Bhai Dooj, also called Bhratri Dwitiya, is an important Hindu festival that celebrates the special bond shared between brothers and sisters. According to the Hindu calendar, Bhai Dooj falls on the second day of Dwitiya Tithi and is celebrated twice a year – once after Holi and again two days after Diwali.

Holi Bhai Dooj is observed on Dwitiya Tithi, which occurs either on the day following Rangawali Holi or the day after Holika Dahan. This year, according to Drikpanchang, Holi Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on March 27.

The festival is a tribute to Lord Yama and Yamuna, honored across the nation. In some regions, it's known as Yama Dwitiya. Beyond just brothers and sisters, it celebrates the love and bond among siblings, urging them to strengthen their relationship and reaffirm their dedication to each other.

Holi Bhai Dooj 2024: Date and Time
Date: This year, Holi Bhai Dooj falls on March 27.
Dwitiya Tithi begins at 2:55 PM on March 26, 2024, and ends at 5:06 PM on March 27.

Holi Bhai Dooj 2024: History
Similar to Raksha Bandhan, Bhai Dooj honors the sibling bond with various legends in Hindu mythology. One such legend recounts that on Dwitiya of the Shukla Paksha in Kartik month, Lord Yama, the god of death, visited his sister Yamuna (the river). Yamuna welcomed him with treats and applied sandalwood paste, known as tilak, on his forehead. Lord Yama blessed sisters who perform similar rituals on this day with long life and prosperity.

Holi Bhai Dooj 2024: Significance
While traditions may vary, Bhai Dooj typically involves applying tika (a mark) on the forehead, performing aarti (a worship ritual), exchanging gifts, and sharing meals. Sisters pray for their brothers' well-being and longevity, while brothers promise to support and protect their sisters. The festival highlights the importance of love, respect, and family unity, fostering enduring bonds and cherished memories.

Holi Bhai Dooj 2024: Rituals
On this day, sisters prepare a puja thali with offerings like diyas, roli, rice, sweets, fruits, betel nuts, and a sacred thread (moli). The tilak ceremony is central to the festival, where the sister applies a mark on her brother's forehead using roli or other auspicious substances like sandalwood paste. She performs aarti for his prosperity and longevity, followed by offering sweets and gifts. Traditionally, brothers reciprocate with special gifts for their sisters.

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