Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on October 23 across the country where sisters will apply tilak on the foreheads of their brothers praying for their long life and success. However do you know why this festival is celebrated? According to Hindu mythology, Lord Surya (the Sun God) had two children — Yamraj, the God of Death, and Yamuna, the river goddess. The siblings shared a deep bond of affection. Yamuna often invited her brother to visit her home, but Yamraj, burdened by his divine duties, could never find the time.
Finally, on the second day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Kartika, Yamraj decided to fulfill his promise and visit Yamuna. Though he initially hesitated — fearing that his role as the God of Death might bring unease to her home — his love for his sister overcame his doubts.
Yamuna joyfully welcomed her brother, performing his aarti and offering him a feast of delicious dishes she had lovingly prepared. Touched by her devotion, Yamraj asked Yamuna to request a boon. She wished that he would visit her home every year on this very day and bless all brothers and sisters who honor their bond with love and prayers.
Yamraj granted her wish, declaring that any brother who visits his sister on this day and receives her blessings shall be blessed with a long and prosperous life. From that day forward, this occasion has been celebrated as Bhai Dooj, a festival symbolizing the eternal bond between brothers and sisters.