When is Bhai Dooj 2024? Know the date, timings, origin, significance, and more

On Bhai Dooj, sisters apply a tilak to their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their prosperity and longevity, celebrating the unique bond shared between siblings.

With the festival around the corner, here’s all you need to know about Bhai Dooj from the date and time to the history behind the festival, and more.

Happy Bhai Dooj 2024: Share best wishes, greetings, images, pics, status, and more

When is Bhai Dooj 2024: Date and Timings

Derived from the terms bhai and dooj, where ‘Bhai’ means brother, while ‘Dooj’ refers to the second day following the new moon’s rise.

The event is traditionally held on the second lunar day of Shukla Paksha in the Kartika month, just after the bright festival of Diwali.

Falling on the 3rd of November, 2024, which is Sunday, this year Bhai Dooj will be observed on the second lunar day of Shukla Paksha, according to the Vikram Samvat calendar.

The main rituals for the festival will take place on November 3, during the Aparahna time, which is from 01:17 PM to 03:38 PM. The auspicious Dwitiya Tithi for the festival begins on November 2 at 8:21 PM and ends on November 3 at 10:05 PM.

Happy Bhai Dooj 2024: Wishes, quotes, SMS, messages, and greetings 

Bhai Dooj 2024: Origin and Significance

Bhai Dooj’s history and origin are based on many Hindu mythological legends.

One common story revolves around Lord Krishna and his sister Subhadra.

According to it, after defeating the demon Narakasura, Lord Krishna visited his sister Subhadra, who greeted him with an aarti, put tilak on his forehead, and brought him sweets.

In response, Krishna praised her and pledged to protect her, laying the groundwork for the celebration.

Another narrative involves the deity of death, Yama, and his sister, Yamuna (Yami).

Yama is reported to have visited his sister Yamuna on this day, and she greeted him with aarti and tilak.

Yama was overjoyed with her sister’s adoration and announced that any brother who received tilak from his sister on this day would be rewarded with a long and successful life.

This is why the day is sometimes referred to as “Yama Dwitiya.”

Overall, these anecdotes emphasise the festival’s significance: to honour and enhance the link between brothers and sisters.

Bhai Dooj is a holiday that celebrates the expression of love and obligation between siblings, with sisters praying for their brother’s well-being and prosperity and brothers promising to protect and care for their sisters.