Bhai Dooj 2025: Mark the Correct Date and Auspicious Tika Muhurat

Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhau Beej, Bhatru Dwitiya, or Bhathru Dwitiya, is a significant Hindu festival celebrating the unique and enduring bond between brothers and sisters. This auspicious occasion is observed on the Dwitiya Tithi (second day) of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) in the Hindu month of Kartik. For the year 2025, there has been some confusion regarding. The exact date, with both October 22nd and 23rd being mentioned.

The Correct Date and Auspicious Time

For 2025, Bhai Dooj will be definitively observed on

Thursday, October 23

. Sisters who wish to perform the sacred tilak ceremony for their brothers should note the auspicious muhurat (time), while the most favorable period for applying tilak is between

01:19 PM and 03:35 PM

. Performing the rituals during this specific window is believed to amplify the blessings for the brother's longevity and prosperity.

How Bhai Dooj is Celebrated

On the day of Bhai Dooj, sisters typically wake early, take a ritualistic bath, and make a vow to observe the fast for their brother's well-being, while they invite their brothers to their home and prepare a special puja thali adorned with roli (vermilion), akshat (rice grains), coconut, sweets, and a lamp. The central ritual involves the sister applying a ghee tilak on her brother's forehead, tying a sacred red thread (kalava) on his wrist, and performing his aarti (a ritual of waving lighted lamps). Following this, sisters offer traditional sweets to their brothers. In return, brothers traditionally present their sisters with gifts and blessings, symbolizing their love, protection, and appreciation.

The Legend Behind Bhai Dooj

The origins of the Bhai Dooj festival are deeply intertwined with the mythological tale of Lord Yamraj, the God of Death, and his beloved sister, Yamuna. Legend has it that on this particular day, Yamraj visited his sister Yamuna's house. Overwhelmed with joy, Yamuna welcomed her brother with immense warmth and hospitality, while she performed his aarti, applied tilak, and lovingly prepared a delectable meal for him. Pleased by her devotion and affection, Yamraj granted her a boon, declaring that any brother who visits his sister's home on this day and receives her tilak and blessings would be protected from an untimely death. This divine visit is believed to have initiated the sacred tradition of Bhai Dooj, reinforcing the eternal bond between siblings.