This year, Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on October 23, 2025 (Thursday). According to the Hindu calendar (Panchang), the Dwitiya Tithi will begin at 8:16 PM on October 22 and last until 10:46 PM on October 23. Therefore, according to the Udayatithi (the tithi prevailing at sunrise), the festival will be celebrated on October 23. The auspicious time for applying tilak on this day will be from 1:13 PM to 3:28 PM.
Bhai Dooj 2025: This festival, symbolizing the love and affection between brothers and sisters, will be celebrated this year on October 23 (Thursday). According to the Panchang, the Kartik Shukla Dwitiya Tithi will commence on the night of October 22 and extend until 10:46 PM on the night of October 23. Therefore, based on the Udayatithi, the festival will be observed on the 23rd. According to mythological tales, it was on this day that Yamraj visited his sister Yamuna's house and received a tilak. Hence, it is also known as Yama Dwitiya. The auspicious time for tilak will be from 1:13 PM to 3:28 PM, during which sisters will apply tilak to their brothers, wishing them long life, happiness, and prosperity.
Bhai Dooj Date and Time
According to the Panchang, this year the Dwitiya Tithi will commence at 08:16 PM on October 22, 2025. This Tithi will conclude at 10:46 PM on October 23, 2025. For this reason, celebrating the festival of Bhai Dooj on October 23 is considered auspicious.
On this day, the auspicious time for applying tilak will be from 01:13 PM to 03:28 PM. During this period, sisters can apply tilak to their brothers and wish them long life and happiness.
Mythological Significance of Bhai Dooj
A mythological story is associated with Bhai Dooj. It is said that on this day, Yamraj visited his sister Yamuna's home. Devi Yamuna respectfully welcomed him, offered him delicious food, and applied tilak on his forehead. Yamraj was pleased and granted a boon that any brother who visits his sister's house on this day and receives a tilak will not fear untimely death and will attain a long life.
For this reason, on this day, sisters observe a fast for their brothers' long life and prosperity. Brothers also give gifts to their sisters and promise to protect them. This festival is not just a celebration of family ties but also a symbol of brother-sister love and protection.
Method of Applying Tilak on Bhai Dooj
The process of applying tilak on Bhai Dooj is simple and traditional. First, during the auspicious time, make a 'chowk' (a square-shaped drawing) using rice flour. On this chowk, seat the brother facing either the east or north direction.
Apply roli or sandalwood tilak on the brother's forehead and offer unbroken rice (akshat). After this, tie a 'kalava' (sacred thread) on the brother's wrist and offer him sweets. During the puja, light a ghee lamp and perform the aarti of the brother. Finally, the brother should touch the sister's feet to seek blessings, and the sister should give him a gift. This process strengthens the love and bond between siblings.
Social and Cultural Significance of Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj is not merely a religious festival. It also symbolizes mutual respect, love, and protection between brothers and sisters. Bhai Dooj is celebrated in different forms across various parts of India. In some regions, it is known as Yama Tithi or Yama Dwitiya.
In many places, sisters express their love by applying tilak to their brothers, feeding them sweets, and giving them gifts. Brothers also visit their sisters' homes, promising protection and well-being. This festival works to strengthen brother-sister relationships within families and society.
Other Customs Associated with Bhai Dooj
On Bhai Dooj, it is considered important to clean the house and decorate the puja area. Sisters adorn the courtyard with rangoli and lamps. A communal meal between brothers and sisters is also organized on this day. In many families, sisters prepare special dishes for their brothers, and brothers respectfully eat them, showing their regard.
The exchange of gifts between brothers and sisters is also part of the tradition on this day. Gifts include sweets, clothes, money, and jewelry. This festival is not limited to material gifts but is a celebration of emotions and relationships.
Tilak Muhurat and Puja Method
This year, the period from 01:13 PM to 03:28 PM is considered the most auspicious for Bhai Dooj. Applying tilak during this time ensures a brother's long life, success, and happiness in life. During this period, sisters offer tilak and akshat, wishing for their brother's well-being.
This festival of Bhai Dooj not only strengthens family bonds but also grants special significance to brother-sister relationships in society. The rituals and prayers performed on this day bring positive energy into life and foster harmony and love within the family.
