Bhai Dooj is one of the most cherished festivals celebrating the special bond between brothers and sisters. Observed on the second day of the Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik, the festival comes shortly after Diwali and is marked by prayers, rituals, family gatherings and the exchange of gifts.
One of the most important traditions of Bhai Dooj is the application of a tilak on a brother’s forehead by his sister. While the ritual is widely followed across India, its origins are associated with an interesting story from Hindu mythology involving Lord Yama, the god of death, and his sister Yamuna.
The legend explains the religious significance of the festival and why sisters pray for their brothers’ long life, happiness and prosperity.
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The Story of Yama and Yamuna Behind Bhai Dooj
According to Hindu mythology, Yamuna, also known as Yami, was the sister of Lord Yama. She deeply loved her brother and repeatedly wished for him to visit her home. However, Yama, who was responsible for overseeing the cycle of life and death, remained occupied with his duties and could not visit her for a long time.
One day, Yamuna invited her brother to her home. Lord Yama accepted the invitation and visited her on the second day of the bright fortnight of the Kartik month.
Overjoyed by his arrival, Yamuna welcomed him warmly. She performed traditional rituals, applied a ceremonial tilak on his forehead, performed aarti and prepared a special meal for him.
Touched by his sister’s affection and hospitality, Lord Yama asked her to express a wish. Yamuna requested that every brother who visits his sister on this auspicious day and receives her blessings should be blessed with happiness, prosperity and a long life.
Lord Yama granted her wish. According to the popular legend, this is why Bhai Dooj is associated with prayers for the well-being and longevity of brothers.
Why Is Bhai Dooj Also Known as Yama Dwitiya?
Bhai Dooj is also popularly known as Yama Dwitiya because of its association with Lord Yama and the second lunar day, or Dwitiya, of the bright fortnight of Kartik.
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