Bhai Dooj Puja

Introduction

Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhaiya Dooj, Bhaiya Duj, or Bhau Beej, is a cherished festival celebrated across India, dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters. Rooted in tradition and culture, it is observed on the second day after Diwali, which falls on the Shukla Paksha of the Hindu lunar month of Kartika. The festival underscores the special relationship between siblings and is marked by rituals that express love and affection.

Significance of Bhai Dooj

Bhai Dooj holds profound significance as it celebrates the bond of protection and love between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters perform a ceremonial Aarti for their brothers and apply a protective Tika (vermilion) on their foreheads. In return, brothers give gifts and promise to safeguard their sisters throughout their lives. The festival symbolizes the sacred duty of brothers to protect their sisters and the sisters’ prayers for their brothers’ well-being and prosperity.

The festival is rooted in various legends and myths, one of which recounts the story of Yama, the Lord of Death, and his sister, Yamuna. According to the legend, Yamuna invited Yama to her home on this day, and in gratitude for her hospitality, Yama blessed her and declared that those who observe the ritual would gain long life and happiness for their brothers.

Benefits of Celebrating Bhai Dooj

Celebrating Bhai Dooj fosters the sibling bond and brings numerous benefits:

• Strengthens Family Ties: Reinforces the bond between siblings, promoting love and understanding.
• Enhances Protection: Brothers promise to protect their sisters, fostering a sense of security and support.
• Promotes Prosperity: Sisters pray for their brothers’ success and well-being, ensuring their prosperity.
• Nurtures Relationships: Encourages meaningful interactions and strengthens family relationships.

Rituals of Bhai Dooj

The celebration of Bhai Dooj includes several rituals that highlight the importance of family bonds:

• Preparation: Sisters prepare a special Puja Thali, which includes items like a Diya (lamp), sweets, and a Tika.
• Aarti and Tika: Sisters perform Aarti for their brothers, applying a Tika on their foreheads as a symbol of protection and love.
• Gift Exchange: Brothers give gifts to their sisters as a token of their affection and promise of protection.
• Feasting: The day is also marked by sharing festive meals, with special sweets and delicacies prepared for the occasion.

Celebrating Bhai Dooj

Bhai Dooj is celebrated with enthusiasm across various regions of India. It is an occasion for families to come together and celebrate their unique relationships. Sisters and brothers spend quality time together, reinforcing their bond and creating cherished memories. The festival is a beautiful reminder of the importance of family and the love that binds us all.

Samagri

for Puja:
Haldi [organic] (20gm), Kumkum [organic] (20gm), Tulsi Mala (1), Diya Batti (5), Beetle Nuts (5), Desi Ghee (20ml), Honey (20ml), Jaggery (Gudh) (20gm), Akshata [Yellow rice] (20gm), Yagno-paveetha (5), Karpoora [camphor] (5Tabs), Red/White/Yellow Cloth(1 mtr), Prasad [Laung, Elaichi, Mishri] (20gm), Mouli (25mtr), Ganga Jal (15ml), Durva [fresh] (1), Agarbatti (6)/Dhoop (2), Dakshina (100INR), God Idols (pair), Sambrani (2), Sambrani Holder (1), Kalash [small copper] (1), Panchpatra [small copper] (1), Diya Holder (2), Panchamrit spoon (1), Karpoora Holder(1), includes perishables [Beetle Leaves [fresh] (9), Flowers [fresh] (incl mala), Tulsi [fresh], Mango Leaves [fresh] (7)]

Small Havan:
Cow Dung Cake (2), Mango Wood (250gm), HavanSamagri [20+ Grganic Herbs] (100gm), Ghee (20ml)

Yajman to provide:
Curd (100gm), Milk (100ml), Mithai (250gm), Fruits [5types], Coconut (1), HavanKund, SuchiSarva (Havan Spoon) (1), Kalash [big] (1), Bowl [preferably copper/silver] (1), Spoon [preferably copper/silver] (1), Utensils [2 big Plates (for Aarti/Samagri), disposable Plates, Bowls & Spoons], First solid food (preferably Kheer or Payasam)