As the festival lights of Diwali fade, India embraces yet another celebration of love, protection, and family--Bhai Dooj--a festival that beautifully honours the eternal bond between brothers and sisters. Falling on the second day after Diwali, Bhai Dooj carries deep emotional and cultural significance, symbolising affection, trust and lifelong companionship between siblings.
In North India, Bhai Dooj is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Sisters invite their brothers’ home, apply a sacred tilak of vermilion and rice on their foreheads, offer aarti, and pray for their long life and happiness.
In return, brothers shower their sisters with heartfelt gifts and promises of protection. The festival is also known as Bhai Phonta in Bengal and Bhau Beej in Maharashtra, showcasing India’s regional