Bhai Dooj highlights the bond between siblings, concluding the Diwali festival. On this unique day, sisters mark their brothers’ foreheads with tilak, praying for their well-being. In return, brothers express love and appreciation through thoughtful gifts. Celebrated on the second day of the bright fortnight in the Kartik month, let’s explore this year’s Bhai Dooj, including the auspicious timing and other essential details.
Shubh Muhurat for Bhai Dooj 2023
The auspicious Shukla Dwitiya Tithi of Kartik month begins on November 14, 2023, at 2:36 p.m. and concludes on November 15 at 1:47 p.m. As per the Udaya Tithi, Bhai Dooj festivities will take place on Wednesday, November 15.
Bhai Dooj 2023: Meaning and Importance
In ancient tales, Yamaraj, the god of death, visited his sister Yami. Touched by her warm welcome, Yami applied a tilak on her brother’s forehead and prepared special dishes for him. Moved by her love, Yamaraj granted her a favor. Yami requested his annual return, and she advised any sister performing these rituals not to fear the god of death.” After vanquishing the demon Narakasura, Lord Krishna visited his sister Subhadra, who greeted him by applying a tilak on his forehead. This tradition marks the origin of Bhai Dooj, commemorating the special bond between brothers and sisters.
Bhai Dooj 2023: Tips for Applying Tilak
Originating from Yamraj and Yami, the day of Bhai Dooj holds special rituals for both brothers and sisters. Prior to tilak application, worship Yamraj and Yami.
During the pooja, sisters should pray for their brother’s troubles to dissipate and for his long life. While applying tilak, ensure the brother faces north or northwest, while the sister faces north-east or east. Sisters are advised to fast before applying tilak, breaking the fast after the ceremony.
Post tilak application, sisters traditionally offer sweets to their brothers. On Bhai Dooj, brothers typically visit their sisters’ homes. If this isn’t possible, sisters can send tilak and dry coconut to their brothers.
To conclude the celebration, brothers reciprocate by presenting a gift to their sisters.
Bhai Dooj 2023: The Tradition of Gifting Coconuts Explained
Following the tilak ceremony on Bhai Dooj, sisters present a coconut shell to their brothers. Legend has it that when Yamraj visited Yamuna’s house for the first time on this day, sister Yamuna welcomed him and offered a coconut shell as he departed. This gesture marked the beginning of the tradition of gifting coconuts on Bhai Dooj.