Bhai Dooj

The Shukla Paksha Dwitiya after Diwali is called Bhai Dooj. On this day, the bond between a brother and a sister becomes stronger. If the sister is married, the brother, going to her place, to have food prepared by her, is auspicious. Before that, the sister applies tilak on the forehead of the brother and performs his aarti.

This day is also called Yama Dwitiya. It is on this day that Yama goes to meet his sister Yami. River Yamuna is also considered the sister of Yama. If we take a dip in River Yamuna on this day, it is auspicious. If it is not possible to visit the river, we can take the name of the river and bathe at home. This pooja pleases Lord Yama and helps overcome the fear of death.

This day depicts the strong family bond. On this day, Lord Shiva and his family (Shiva Parivar) are offered single white and single red flower garlands to reap auspicious benefits. Chitragupta, who keeps track of our sins and auspicious deeds, in Yama Loka is also worshipped on this day. Thus, the pooja involves that of account books and writing instruments. Some perform the pooja of Lord Vishwakarma as well for the permanence of their shelter and dwelling.

We also celebrated this pooja. Mom and I also bathed using 16 cans of pure water to purify ourselves from the sin of calling undeserving wretches, as brothers. Mom also placed food mixed with sesame for the crows in memory of her late gentleman brother. She also prayed that she should not call undeserving people as brothers, in her entire life.