The relationship between sisters and brothers is truly special and unique. It has been revered for ages in many cultures around the world. The festival of Bhai Dooj in India is a celebration of this wonderful relationship. Bhai Dooj is also known by many names in different parts of the Indian subcontinent. On the day of the festival, sisters pray for their brothers well being and prosperity. They also apply tikka on the foreheads of their brothers and present them with Bhai Dooj gifts.
Among all human relationships, the relationship between sisters and brothers is considered to be the noblest one. Sisters and brothers share a unique chemistry which is distinct from any other relationship. They are the perfect complement for one another and are sympathetic to each other’s choice and preferences. Growing up in the same household, they have a sense of camaraderie and are protective of each other. Brothers and sisters know each other more than anyone else and they are always the best of friends. Their special relationship doesn’t diminish with age or after marriages. It is an eternal bond which has been a subject of reverence and owns special regard in many cultures all around the world. This special relationship is honored at the festival of Bhai Dooj in India. The festival comes second only to Rakshabandhan, which is an important traditional festival dedicated exclusively to brothers and sisters.
Bhai Dooj falls on the second day of the new moon in the month of Kartik which also happens to be the fifth day of Diwali, the biggest festival in the country. Bhai Dooj is celebrated all over the country with great joy and enthusiasm. The name of festival differs from one part to another part of the Indian subcontinent. Bhai Dooj is known as Bhaiya Duj in Northern India and Bhai Phota in Bengal. It is called Bhau Beej in Maharashtra and also known as "Bhai-Tikka" in Nepal.
Bhai Dooj celebrations are marked by many religious rites and ceremonies. Amongst the most important rites is that of the pooja ceremony which the sisters perform to seek the blessings of the gods for their brothers well being and prosperity. The ritual is a testimony to the devotion and the care that the sisters take for their brothers. The Bhai Dooj pooja thali is an integral part of ritual, and after the Puja, the sisters apply their brothers’ foreheads with a tilak or a vermilion mark from the Puja Thali. The tilak or tikka is meant to keep the brothers safe from harm and also bring them good fortune. The sisters also present their brothers with Bhai tikka gifts on the occasion. The gifts may also differ from state to state and local traditions. The gifting of rice and new grass is an integral part of the rituals in Bihar, while in Uttar Pradesh, the brothers are gifted with a length of flax which is knotted into a circular shape and dotted with sugar batashas.
Indian festivals – Our Celebration, Our Sweets
India is a land that is very famous for its colorful hordes of festivals spread all over the year. From Baisakhi to Christmas, there are many festivals in 12 months and each one of them is celebrated with same high voltage excitement. The Christmas cake and the Diwali sweets are made with the same love and affection and that’s because we as a country stand united in diversity.
Bonsai Cultivation and Indoor Gardening
Plants are a primary necessity for life on the planet. They perform an integral role in maintaining the right environment for life to survive and flourish. Planting more trees has become a necessity for the world today and people usually do indoor gardening. And Bonsai cultivating is one of the most popular form of Indoor gardening.
Bringing the Air of Festivity with Bhaidooj
Commemorating one of the most promising bonds that exist between siblings, the festival of bhaidooj is just around the corner. Preparations for Bhaidooj starts well in advance and people are already out on shopping, looking for beautiful gifts for their brother. Celebrate the festival with great pomp and show.
