New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his heartfelt greetings to the nation on the auspicious occasion of Bhai Dooj on Wednesday. He described the festival as a symbol of the deep bond of love, affection, and intimacy shared between brothers and sisters.
In a post on the social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi wished everyone happiness and prosperity. He wrote, “Heartfelt greetings to all my fellow citizens across the country on the occasion of Bhai Dooj. This sacred festival symbolizes the sweetness and intimacy of the deep bond of love between brothers and sisters. On this auspicious occasion, I wish everyone happiness and prosperity.”
Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also extended his greetings and best wishes to the people of his state on the occasion of Bhai Dooj. In his message on X, he described the festival as a symbol of the unbreakable love, affection, and trust between brothers and sisters.
Chief Minister Dhami stated that the relationship between a brother and a sister is one of the most precious bonds in life. It is rooted in love, a sense of belonging, mutual trust, and unwavering dedication toward one another.
He expressed his hope that this sacred festival of Bhai Dooj would bring happiness and prosperity into everyone’s life.
Bhai Dooj is celebrated under different names across the country
Bhai Dooj is celebrated throughout India under various names and through diverse traditions. In North India, it is known as Bhai Dooj, Bhau Beej, or Bhai Beej. In Maharashtra, it is called Bhau-beej; in Bengal, it is known as Bhai Phota; and in parts of South India—particularly in Karnataka and Telangana—it is celebrated as Yama Dwitiya.
According to mythological beliefs, on the second day (Dwitiya) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the month of Kartika, Goddess Yamuna hosted her brother, Yamraj, for a meal at her home. It is from this event that the tradition of observing this day as ‘Yama Dwitiya’ originated. On this day, sisters apply a tilak on their brothers’ foreheads and observe fasts and perform prayers, seeking long life, good health, and prosperity for them. In turn, brothers give gifts to their sisters and pledge to protect them.
Much like Raksha Bandhan, Bhai Dooj is a festival dedicated to the love and unbreakable bond between brothers and sisters. This festival holds special significance in Hindu religious beliefs and ancient scriptures.