Introduction Bhai Dooj celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. It is observed on the second day after Diwali. Sisters apply a Tilak on their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their long life.

The Story (Vrat Katha) Yamuna and Yama were siblings, the children of the Sun God (Surya). Yamuna loved her brother dearly and often invited him to her home for a meal. However, Yama, being busy with his duties as the God of Death, could never find the time.

Finally, on the second day of the Kartik month (Dooj), Yama visited Yamuna. She was overjoyed. She welcomed him, bathed him, applied a Tilak on his forehead, and served him a delicious feast prepared with her own hands.

Yama was extremely pleased. He told Yamuna to ask for a boon. Yamuna said, “Brother, I only ask that you visit me every year on this day. And whoever receives a Tilak from his sister and eats at her house on this day should never fear untimely death.”

Yama granted the boon, saying “Tathastu” (So be it).

Conclusion Since then, brothers visit their sisters on this day. It is believed that this ritual protects brothers from the wrath of Yama and strengthens the sibling bond.