Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended heartfelt greetings to citizens across the country on the occasion of Bhai Dooj, highlighting the special bond of love, affection and trust shared between brothers and sisters. He also wished happiness, prosperity and well-being for every family celebrating the festival.
In a message shared on social media platform X, the Prime Minister described Bhai Dooj as a sacred festival that represents the warmth and sweetness of the deep relationship between brothers and sisters. He conveyed his best wishes to people across the country and expressed hope that the auspicious occasion would bring happiness and prosperity to society.
Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhaiya Dooj, Bhai Tika and Bhau Beej in different parts of India, is celebrated with enthusiasm and affection. The festival highlights the importance of family relationships and recognises the emotional connection, care and mutual support between siblings.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also extended greetings on the occasion, describing Bhai Dooj as a celebration of the unbreakable affection, trust and closeness between brothers and sisters. She highlighted the importance of sibling relationships in Indian culture and expressed hope that the festival would bring happiness, prosperity and joy to every household.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also conveyed his heartfelt wishes to people celebrating Bhai Dooj. In his message, he described the festival as a symbol of affection, devotion and closeness between siblings. He prayed to Goddess Yamuna for happiness, prosperity and well-being in people’s lives and wished for stronger bonds of love and trust within families.
Bhai Dooj is celebrated on the Dwitiya Tithi, or the second lunar day of the Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartika. The festival holds religious and cultural significance and is observed through various traditions across different regions of the country.
According to Hindu mythology, the festival is associated with the relationship between Goddess Yamuna and her brother, Lord Yama, the god of death. According to the legend, Yamuna invited Yama to her home for a meal on Kartik Shukla Dwitiya and welcomed him with affection and hospitality.
Moved by his sister’s love and devotion, Yama blessed her and granted a boon that brothers visiting their sisters on this auspicious day would receive blessings for happiness and well-being. This traditional belief became associated with the celebration of Bhai Dooj.
Across India, families mark the occasion through prayers, traditional rituals, festive meals and the exchange of blessings and gifts. Sisters often perform aarti and apply a ceremonial tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, praying for their long life, happiness and success. Brothers, in return, express their affection and appreciation through gifts and promises of support.
The festival serves as a reminder of the importance of family values, mutual respect and lifelong companionship. The greetings extended by national and state leaders reflect the cultural significance of Bhai Dooj and its enduring place in India’s festive traditions.
