Bhai Dooj Time 2025 on 23 October 2025 – Auspicious Muhurat for Bhai Dooj celebrations is given here..
The second day after Diwali is celebrated as Bhai Dooj or Bhau Beej in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and other North Indian states, and as Bhai Phonta in Bengal and Assam and as Bhai Tika in Nepal. It is celebrated as Yama Dwitiya or Bhagini Hastha Bhojanam in South Indian states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
On this day, sisters offer meals with special recipes to brothers and in return brothers offer gold, clothes, and other material that are symbols of long-lasting sindhur. It is believed on this day; Lord Yama visits his sister Yamuna and eats meals at her abode.
Bhai Dooj Shubh Muhurat = 1.02 PM to 3.20 PM
Bhai Dooj marks the end of 5-day Deepavali festival in South India.
Abhijit Muhurat is also the best muhurat for Bhai Dooj rituals. In 2025, on Bhai Dooj (23 October) Abhijit Muhurat = 11.28 AM to 12.15 PM
Significance
- Cultural Importance: The term “Bhai” means brother, and “Dooj” refers to the second day after the new moon. On this day, sisters pray for their brothers’ well-being and longevity while brothers promise to protect their sisters. The festival underscores the unconditional love shared between siblings.
- Hindu Historical Roots: The celebration is linked to various legends:
- One popular story involves Lord Krishna, who visited his sister Subhadra after defeating the demon Narakasura. Subhadra welcomed him with sweets and performed the tilak ceremony, symbolizing her love and protection.
- Another tale features Yama, the god of death, who visited his sister Yamuna on this day. After receiving a warm welcome and tilak from her, Yama blessed all brothers who receive tilak from their sisters with longevity and prosperity
Rituals and Observances
- Tilak Ceremony: Sisters apply a tilak (vermilion mark) on their brothers’ foreheads while performing aarti (a ritual involving light). This act is accompanied by prayers for their brothers’ safety and success.
- Gift Exchange: Brothers typically give gifts to their sisters as a token of appreciation and love, reinforcing their commitment to protect them.
- Family Gatherings: The day is often celebrated with family gatherings where special meals are prepared, fostering unity and togetherness.
- Regional Variations: While Bhai Dooj is widely celebrated across India, it is known by different names in various regions:
- Bhai Phota in West Bengal
- Yama Dwitiya in South India
- Bhau Beej in Maharashtra
- Bhagini Hastha Bhojanam in Andhra Pradesh & Telangana