The sacred bond between brothers and sisters is celebrated across India with immense devotion during Bhai Dooj. Also known as Bhaiya Dooj or Yama Dwitiya, this festival marks the end of the five-day Diwali festivities. In 2025, Bhai Dooj will be observed with traditional rituals, heartfelt prayers, and joyous reunions. This article explores the date, Tilak Vidhi, shubh muhurat, and the spiritual significance of this beautiful occasion.
When is Bhai Dooj in 2025?
In 2025, Bhai Dooj falls on Sunday, October 26. According to the Hindu lunar calendar, it is celebrated on the Dwitiya Tithi (second day) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartik. This auspicious day arrives two days after Diwali, strengthening the bond of love between siblings.
Shubh Muhurat for Bhai Dooj 2025
Performing rituals during the shubh muhurat ensures divine blessings and prosperity. Here are the key timings:
- Dwitiya Tithi Begins: October 25, 2025, at 11:31 PM
- Dwitiya Tithi Ends: October 26, 2025, at 11:47 PM
- Best Time for Tilak Ceremony: 1:15 PM to 3:30 PM (Aparahna Kaal)
The Significance of Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj holds deep spiritual and cultural importance. According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Yama visited his sister Yamuna on this day, and she welcomed him with an auspicious tilak and prayers. Pleased by her love, Yama granted her a boon that brothers who receive a tilak from their sisters on this day will be blessed with long life and prosperity.
Legends Associated with Bhai Dooj
- Yama and Yamuna: The most popular legend where Lord Yama’s visit to his sister symbolizes the eternal bond of siblings.
- Lord Krishna and Subhadra: After defeating Narakasura, Krishna visited his sister Subhadra, who applied a protective tilak on his forehead.
Bhai Dooj Tilak Vidhi (Rituals)
The Tilak Vidhi is the most important ritual of Bhai Dooj. Sisters perform an aarti, apply a sacred tilak on their brother’s forehead, and offer prayers for their well-being. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Preparation for the Ceremony
- Clean the puja thali with Gangajal and arrange kumkum, rice, roli, flowers, diya, and sweets.
- Brothers sit facing east, while sisters stand facing north for the ceremony.
Steps to Perform Tilak Vidhi
- Light the diya and offer flowers to deities.
- Apply a tilak of kumkum and rice on the brother’s forehead while chanting the Bhai Dooj mantra:
“भ्रातः सुखी भव सदा, धन-धान्य समन्वितः।
त्वामहं रक्षितुं नित्यं, यथा मां रक्षितुं प्रभुः॥”
- Perform aarti with the diya and offer sweets.
- Brothers give gifts or blessings in return.
Traditional Bhai Dooj Celebrations
Across India, Bhai Dooj is celebrated with regional variations:
- North India: Sisters prepare a grand feast, and brothers vow to protect them.
- Bengal: Known as Bhai Phonta, sisters fast until the tilak ceremony.
- Maharashtra: Called Bhav Bij, coconut and dry fruits are offered.
Modern-Day Bhai Dooj Celebrations
While traditions remain sacred, modern celebrations include:
- Virtual tilak ceremonies for distant siblings.
- Gifting personalized presents like photo frames or gadgets.
- Sharing festive wishes on social media.
Bhai Dooj 2025 is a divine occasion to honor the unbreakable bond between brothers and sisters. By following the Tilak Vidhi during the shubh muhurat, siblings invite blessings of longevity, happiness, and prosperity. May this Bhai Dooj fill every home with love, laughter, and cherished memories.