Bhai Dooj 2023: Date, Muhurat, Significance, and Rituals Explained

Bhai Dooj 2023: Date, Muhurat, Significance, and Rituals Explained

Bhai Dooj, a festival that highlights the sacred bond between brothers and sisters, holds special significance as it marks the conclusion of the festival of lights, Diwali. On this occasion, sisters adorn their brothers with a tilak, expressing their love and prayers for their well-being, while brothers reciprocate with thoughtful gifts. Let’s delve into the details of Bhai Dooj 2023, including the auspicious muhurat, the historical tales that surround it, and the meaningful rituals that make it a cherished celebration.

Bhai Dooj 2023: Shubh Muhurat

The 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 Udaya Tithi, Bhai Dooj will be observed on Wednesday, November 15.

Bhai Dooj 2023: Significance

Legend has it that the roots of Bhai Dooj trace back to the divine connection between Yamraj, the deity of death, and his sister Yami. Yami’s heartfelt gesture of applying a tilak to her brother’s forehead and preparing special delicacies during his visit moved Yamraj. Touched by her love, Yamraj granted her a wish – that he would return every year. This act of sibling love is celebrated as ‘Yama Dwitiya’ in south India.

Additionally, it is believed that Lord Krishna, after defeating the demon Narakasura, received a tilak from his sister Subhadra. Since then, Bhai Dooj has been commemorated as a symbol of the eternal bond between siblings.

Bhai Dooj 2023: Rituals and Customs

1. Tilak Ceremony: Commencing with Yamraj and Yami, it is customary for both brother and sister to worship Yamraj and Yami before the tilak ceremony.

2. Prayers for Long Life: During the tilak ceremony, sisters offer prayers for the well-being and long life of their brothers.

3. Tilak Application: When applying tilak, it is advised that the brother’s face should be towards the north or north-west, and the sister’s face towards the north-east or east.

4. Fasting Tradition: Sisters often observe a fast before applying tilak to their brothers, breaking their fast after the ceremony.

5. Sweet Exchange: Following the tilak application, sisters sweeten the celebration by feeding their brothers delicious sweets.

6. Gifting Tradition: Brothers reciprocate the love by presenting thoughtful gifts to their sisters, symbolizing appreciation and affection.

Why Sisters Give Coconuts to Brothers?

After applying tilak, sisters traditionally gift a coconut shell to their brothers. This practice stems from the tale of Yamraj visiting Yamuna’s house, where she welcomed him and gifted a coconut shell upon his departure. Since then, the tradition of gifting coconuts on Bhai Dooj has endured.

As Bhai Dooj 2023 approaches, let us embrace the rituals, traditions, and the enduring bond of love shared between siblings. May this festival be a joyous celebration of family ties and cherished moments that echo the spirit of love and togetherness.

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