Bhai Dooj 2026

Bhai Dooj (also called Bhai Phonta in Bengal, Bhai Tika in Nepal, and Yama Dwitiya in some traditions) is celebrated on Kartik Shukla Dwitiya — two days after Diwali. It honours the bond between brothers and sisters, similar to Raksha Bandhan but with the sister performing a tilak ceremony on the brother's forehead and praying for his long life.

The festival's origin is traced to the story of Yama (the god of death) visiting his sister Yamuna on this day. Yamuna welcomed him with an aarti, tilak, and a meal prepared with love. Moved by her affection, Yama declared that any brother who receives a tilak from his sister on this day would be freed from the fear of untimely death. The Yamuna River in Mathura holds special significance, and a ritual bath there on Bhai Dooj is considered highly auspicious.

The panchang specifies that the Dwitiya tithi should prevail during the Aparahna kala (afternoon) for the tilak ceremony. Sisters prepare a special thali with roli, chawal (rice), sweets, and a diya. The brother sits facing east, and the sister applies the tilak while reciting prayers. In return, the brother gives gifts and reaffirms his commitment to her well-being.

Bhai Dooj marks the conclusion of the five-day Diwali festival cycle. It completes the festive sequence that began with Dhanteras — moving from material prosperity (Dhanteras), through spiritual illumination (Diwali), gratitude to nature (Govardhan Puja), and finally to the celebration of familial love.