Bhai Dooj Katha

• Deities: Yamaraj and Yamuna Ji • When: Kartik Shukla Dwitiya (two days after Deepavali) • Method: The sister applies a tilak to her brother • Fast: Not compulsory • Main lesson: The affection and gratitude between brother and sister

Bhai Dooj is also called Yama Dwitiya. On this day sisters apply a tilak on their brother's forehead and pray for his long life, and brothers give gifts. The katha is linked to Yamaraj and his sister Yamuna. At Yamuna's invitation Yamaraj went to her house, and pleased with his sister's affection he granted a boon.

• On Kartik Shukla Dwitiya, the last day of the five-day festival of Deepavali. • The auspicious time for the tilak is seen in the Panchang.

• Roli, akshat, sandalwood paste • Lamp, flowers, sweets • Coconut or makhana, betel nut, paan • A gift for the brother • An aarti thali

1. The sister bathes in the morning and prepares the puja thali. 2. Seat the brother on a low stool and apply a tilak of roli and akshat. 3. Perform the brother's aarti and feed him sweets. 4. The brother gives the sister a gift and repeats his promise to protect her. 5. Listen to the katha.

• Brother and sister should sit and eat together. • If the sister lives far away, the brother should go to her house. • Listen to the katha and take the blessing of elders.

• Do not quarrel or speak harsh words. • Do not eat yourself first, without the tilak being applied.

It is believed that by eating at the sister's house and having the tilak applied on Bhai Dooj, the brother receives the blessing of long life and love in the family.

• Mantra: Remember "Om Yamaya Namah". • Aarti: https://divyavani.app/aarti

Q: When is Bhai Dooj celebrated? A: On Kartik Shukla Dwitiya, two days after Deepavali. Q: What is the difference between Bhai Dooj and Raksha Bandhan? A: On Raksha Bandhan a rakhi is tied; on Bhai Dooj a tilak is applied and the katha of Yama and Yamuna is heard. Q: Why is Bhai Dooj called Yama Dwitiya? A: Because on this day Yamaraj went to the house of his sister Yamuna. Q: How is the tilak applied? A: Have the brother face east or north, apply a tilak of roli and akshat and perform the aarti. Q: What should one do if the sister lives far away? A: Brother and sister can talk on the phone and exchange blessings, and apply the tilak together later when they meet.

Take care of your health while fasting and consult a doctor if needed. This katha is a retelling of a traditional story. The method and the form of the katha differ by region.