What is the story about?
The five-day long festival of Diwali concludes with Bhai Dooj. For the unversed, it is also called Bhai Tika, Bhaubeej, Bhai Beej, Bhai Phonta, or Bhratri
Dwitiya. This day showcases the unbreakable bond between a brother and sister. Due to the confusion in Diwali dates this year, people are left questioning as to when actually are we celebrating Bhai Dooj.
When Is Bhai Dooj 2026?
Bhai Dooj in 2026 falls on Wednesday, November 11, 2026 (with Dwitiya Tithi overlapping from November 10 to November 11).Key Timings And Shubh Muhurat
- Bhai Dooj Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2026
- Tilak Muhurat (Aparahna Time): 1:10 PM to 3:20 PM (Duration: 2 hours 10 minutes)
- Dwitiya Tithi Begins: 2:00 PM on Tuesday, November 10, 2026
- Dwitiya Tithi Ends: 3:53 PM on Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Significance Of Bhai Dooj
It is believed that after defeating the evil demon Narakasura, Lord Krishna visited his sister Subhadra. She welcomed him with sweets and flowers. As a loving gesture, she also put a tilak on his forehead. Some people believe this story is the origin of the festival.As a result, on this day, sisters invite their brothers over for a big meal that usually includes their favorite dishes and sweets. The way this is celebrated may vary in Bihar and central India. The ceremony represents the brother's duty to protect his sister and the sister's blessings for her brother.
To continue the tradition, sisters perform aarti for their brothers and apply a red tika on their foreheads. This tika ceremony during Bhai Bij symbolises the sister's heartfelt prayers for her brother's long and happy life, and she also gives him gifts. In return, older brothers bless their sisters and may give them gifts or money.
Bhai Dooj Rituals
The day begins with a bathing ritual at dawn. After that, main rituals take place:- Tilak ceremony - The sister puts the tika (tilak) on her brother's forehead.
- Aarti & prayers - The sisters do the aarti prayers wishing for a long life for their brothers.
- Sweets & gifts - Brothers and sisters exchange sweets and gifts. Some sisters give their brothers a coconut as a symbol of purity.
Disclaimer: This article is based on popular beliefs. Times Now is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of the information and facts provided here.
