Why Bhai Dooj Is Also Called Yama Dwitiya: The Story Of Yamraj And His Sister’s Bond

Bhai Dooj is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals across India and beyond. The day is all about honouring the eternal bond of siblings. However, not many of us know that the day is also known as Yam Dwitiya. Do you know why the festival of siblings is linked to the god of death? The name has its roots in mythology associated with the Hindu god of death, Yama, and his sister, the goddess Yamuna.

Why Bhai Dooj Is Also Called Yama Dwitiya?

As per Hindu scriptures, the Skanda Purana, Yam Dwitiya is the day on which Yama, the lord of death and justice, went to visit his sister Yamuna on the second day (Dwitiya) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the lunar month of Kartik. Happy with her brother's arrival, Goddess Yamuna greeted and honoured her brother with a traditional tilak on his forehead, a garland, an arti and a celebratory feast. Grateful for the love, Lord Yama promised that any brother who would receive a tilak from his sister on this holy day would be protected from untimely death and would attain moksha (liberation).

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That divine day led to the ritual of Tilak performed on Bhai Dooj. Each year on the same day, sisters across the globe do aarti and put a tilak on their brother's forehead, wishing them a long life and good health. In return, brothers give presents and take a vow to protect their sisters. The day is a firm reminder of the sister's prayers, which have the power to protect her brother from any harm.

More About Bhai Dooj:

The festival of Bhai Dooj or Yama Diwitya, also known as Bhaiya Dooj or Bhau Beej, is celebrated across the nation. The sacred Hindu festival is celebrated two days after Diwali and is regarded as the last celebration of the five-day-long Diwali festivities. Bhai Dooj is observed throughout India and beyond borders. However, the festivities also comprise some regional differences, for example, Nepal celebrates Bhai Tika, Bhau Beej is celebrated in Maharashtra, and Bhai Phonta in West Bengal. Still, the essence of the festival remains untouched, which is the serene bond of siblings.

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Nowadays, Yam Dwitiya is not just a religious ceremony; it's a cultural celebration of love and appreciation for brothers and sisters. Families come together, share sweets and gifts, and reaffirm their eternal vows of protecting each other and always being there for each other.