As the five-day-long Diwali festivities come to a close, the occasion of Bhai Dooj brings with it an intimate celebration of the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. This year, Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on Thursday, October 23, 2025, across India and by Hindus around the world.

Much like Raksha Bandhan, this day is all about honouring the sibling relationship, a sister’s prayers for her brother’s well-being, and the brother’s lifelong vow to protect her.

Bhai Dooj 2025: Shubh muhurat and tithi

According to Drik Panchang, the Yama Dwitiya Tithi begins at 8:16 pm on October 22 and ends at 10:46 pm on October 23.

The most auspicious time for performing the Tilak or Tika ceremony also called Aparahna Muhurat, is from 1:13 pm to 3:28 pm on October 23. These timings may slightly vary depending on your location.

Bhai Dooj wishes you can send to your brother

Looking for the perfect words to express your love this Bhai Dooj? Here are some heartfelt wishes to share:

  • “Happy Bhai Dooj to the one who’s been my first superhero and forever my best buddy. Here’s to laughter, love, and lifelong memories!”
  • “To my brother, my lifelong partner in crime and my greatest support—may Bhai Dooj bring you endless happiness and success. Love you always!”
  • “To the brother who’s made every moment special, Happy Bhai Dooj! Let’s keep shining together through every season of life.”
  • “Distance may keep us apart, but our bond is forever close. Happy Bhai Dooj, brother! Missing you and sending all my love.”
  • “May this Bhai Dooj strengthen the special bond we share. Here’s to a brother like no other—unique, loving, and simply the best!”
  • “Happy Bhai Dooj to the one who’s always got my back. May your life be full of blessings, success, and endless joy.”

Why is Bhai Dooj celebrated?

Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhratri Dwitiya, Bhai Phonta, and Bhaubeej in different regions, is observed on the second lunar day of Shukla Paksha in the Kartika month, a day after Diwali’s new moon night (Amavasya).

The festival has roots in mythology. One of the most popular legends comes from the story of Yamraj, the God of Death, and his sister Yamuna. According to ancient texts, Yamuna invited her brother to her home on Dwitiya. She welcomed him with a tilak on his forehead and a lovingly prepared feast. Deeply moved, Yamraj granted her a boon, that any brother who receives a tilak from his sister on this day would be blessed with a long, prosperous life.

This is why the ritual is also referred to as Yama Dwitiya, and it continues to be celebrated with immense devotion.

How is Bhai Dooj celebrated?

On this day, sisters apply a tilak or tika on their brothers’ foreheads, perform aarti, and offer sweets or gifts. Brothers in return vow to protect their sisters and often present gifts or money as a token of love.

Families prepare festive dishes like Puri, Sabji, Kheer, and various traditional sweets, adding to the celebratory mood. In some regions, younger siblings touch the feet of elders as a sign of respect and blessings.