Understanding the Significance of Bhai Dooj: Rituals and Timing
The Essence of Bhai Dooj Festival
The festival of Bhai Dooj is observed on the second day of the Shukla Paksha (the bright fortnight) in the month of Kartik. On this special day, sisters perform a Mangal Tilak (a sacred mark) on their brothers, wishing them longevity and prosperity. Many people often wonder about the origins of this festival. According to mythology, Yamraj, the god of death, is the elder brother of Shanidev, whose father is Lord Surya. Lord Surya has two daughters: Yamuna and Bhadra. It is believed that Yamuna originates from Yamunotri in Uttarkashi, where Yamraj's cave is also situated near Nachiketa Lake, which is thought to lead to the underworld. Legend has it that every year on Bhai Dooj, Yamraj visits his sister Yamuna to celebrate this festival before returning to his realm. So, when is the best time to apply the Mangal Tilak on Bhai Dooj for maximum benefits? Let's explore…
Astrological Insights on Bhai Dooj
Providing further insights, renowned astrologer Pandit Shridhar Shastri from Haridwar notes that Bhai Dooj is celebrated similarly to Raksha Bandhan. This festival occurs two days after Diwali. According to the Vedic calendar, Bhaiya Dooj will take place on Thursday, October 23rd, 2025. The Thakur calendar indicates that the second day of the Shukla Paksha in Kartik month begins at 8:16 PM on Wednesday, October 22nd, and continues until 10:46 PM on October 23rd. Observing the festival on October 23rd, based on the Udaya Tithi, is believed to yield positive outcomes.
Timing and Rituals for Mangal Tilak
Astrological guidance suggests that the auspicious tilak should be applied to your brother during a specific time frame on Bhaiya Dooj. It is essential to follow a particular method for applying the tilak to ensure its effectiveness. Before applying the tilak, create a square or rangoli using flour. Have your brother stand on the square, facing east with his back to the west. The ideal time for applying the tilak on this day is from 1:13 PM to 3:28 PM. During this 2-hour and 15-minute window, apply the Mangal Tilak to your brother and wish him a long and prosperous life.
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