Bhau Beej, also known as Bhai Dooj, is one of the most heartwarming festivals in India, celebrating the cherished bond between brothers and sisters. In 2025, Bhau Beej will be celebrated on Friday, 23rd October, marking the conclusion of the five-day Diwali festivities. The festival symbolizes love, protection, and the unbreakable connection that binds siblings together across distances and generations.
The Story Behind Bhau Beej
The origins of Bhau Beej are rooted in Hindu mythology. It is believed that on this day, Lord Yama, the God of Death, visited his sister Yamuna after a long time. Yamuna welcomed him with love, performed an aarti, applied a tilak on his forehead, and offered him sweets. Touched by her affection, Yama declared that any brother who visits his sister on this day and receives a tilak from her will be blessed with a long and prosperous life. Since then, Bhau Beej has been observed as a day celebrating the sacred bond between brothers and sisters.
Celebrations Across Goa
In Goa, Bhau Beej fondly called Bhau Beej or Bhau Bij, is celebrated with both traditional rituals and a festive spirit unique to Goan households. Sisters perform the aarti, apply roli and rice tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, and pray for their well-being. In return, brothers offer gifts or money as a token of love and promise of lifelong protection.
Families often come together for a special lunch, with Goan delicacies like puran poli, kheer, and sanna gracing the table. In some parts of Goa, cousins and close friends also join the celebration, turning it into a joyous gathering filled with laughter, blessings, and nostalgia.
A Festival of Love and Gratitude
Beyond the rituals, Bhai Dooj stands as a reminder of gratitude and emotional connection. It’s a day when siblings, even if separated by distance, reach out to each other through messages, video calls, or heartfelt wishes. Many also take this occasion to express appreciation to those who have been like siblings in their lives. reinforcing that love and care extend beyond blood ties.
As Goa glows in the afterlight of Diwali. Bhau Beej 2025 will once again bring warmth to homes, strengthen family bonds, and remind everyone of the joy of togetherness. A perfect way to end the festive season with love and light.
