বাংলায় পড়ুন
After the festivities of Kali Pujo and Diwali, the excitement continues for the people of Bengal as they eagerly await Bhai Dooj, a unique celebration that strengthens the bond between brothers and sisters. This festival, also known as Yama Dwitiya, holds a special place in the hearts of Bengalis.
On this day, sisters pray for the long and prosperous lives of their brothers by applying a mark made of sandalwood paste to their foreheads. In return, brothers adorn their sisters' foreheads with a mark made of sandalwood and give them gifts. It is believed that observing this tradition can protect brothers from the fear of Yama, the God of Death, and ward off untimely death from their siblings.
So, when does Bhai Dooj fall this year?
Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on the 14th and 15th of November this year. According to the Hindu calendar, it falls on the second day of the Kartik Shukla Paksha. The auspicious time to perform the ritual starts on the 14th of November at 2:36 PM and concludes on the 15th of November at 1:47 PM.
In Hindu tradition, most festivals are celebrated on auspicious dates based on the lunar calendar. That's why Bhai Dooj is observed on the 15th of November this year, as it corresponds with the Kartik Shukla Paksha. According to the Panjika (Hindu almanack), Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on the 14th of November, which falls on a Tuesday. The auspicious time for the ritual begins at 2:36 PM and ends on the next day, November 15, at 1:47 PM.
What's the significance of the timing on the 14th and 15th of November?
According to the Panjika, the auspicious time for Bhai Dooj on the 14th of November is from 2:36 PM to 3:19 PM. As for the 15th of November, the auspicious time for giving the mark is from 10:45 AM to 12:05 PM.
Now, let's delve into the significance and story behind the celebration of Bhai Dooj.
Bhai Dooj holds a special significance in Hindu culture, emphasising the unbreakable bond between brothers and sisters. It is a day to cherish and strengthen the love between siblings. This tradition is not limited to Bengal but is celebrated with enthusiasm in Bihar and Maharashtra as well.
In Hindu mythology, there is a popular tale associated with Bhai Dooj. It revolves around Yama, the God of Death, and his two children, Yama and Yami. Yama and Yami shared a deep and inseparable bond as siblings. On Kartik Shukla Paksha's second day, Yama visited his sister Yami's home to receive a special mark on his forehead. It is said that from that day on, the tradition of Bhai Dooj began.
So, as Bhai Dooj approaches this year, let's celebrate the beautiful bond between brothers and sisters and carry forward this cherished tradition.
