Bhai Dooj 2025: Significance of Bathing in the Yamuna on Bhai Dooj in Braj Mandal

Bhai Dooj, celebrated two days after Diwali, marks the conclusion of the five-day festival of lights. Known by various names like Bhau Beej, Bhaiya Dooj, Bhatra Dwitiya, and Bhai Dwitiya, this festival symbolizes the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters apply tilak to their brothers, tie a sacred thread, perform aarti, and receive gifts in return. Traditionally, sisters begin the day with an early morning bath and observe a fast until the rituals are complete.

Bathing in the Yamuna – A Sacred Tradition in Braj Mandal

In the Braj region, Bhai Dooj holds a unique significance as brothers and sisters bathe together in the holy Yamuna River. This ritual is believed to bring prosperity, protection, and strengthen the sibling bond. The tradition is deeply rooted in mythology associated with Yamraj and Yamuna.

Auspicious Time for Bhai Dooj 2025

According to the Hindu calendar, the Dwitiya Tithi will begin on October 22, 2025, at 8:16 PM, and conclude on October 23, 2025, at 10:46 PM. Therefore, Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on October 23. The most auspicious time for applying tilak (Tilak Muhurat) will be from 1:13 PM to 3:28 PM.

The Story Behind Yama Dwitiya

Bhai Dooj is also called Yama Dwitiya, based on the legend of Yamraj, the God of Death, and his sister Yamuna. As per the story, Yamraj visited his sister after a long time. Overjoyed, Yamuna welcomed him with a tilak and served him with love and devotion. Pleased with her affection, Yamraj offered her a boon.

Yamuna first asked her brother to free all beings from the fear of death, but when Yamraj said it wasn’t possible, she requested that any brother or sister who bathes in the Yamuna and performs the Bhai Dooj rituals be freed from the fear of untimely death. Yamraj granted her this wish, and since then, the custom of bathing in the Yamuna on Bhai Dooj has become a sacred and enduring tradition in Braj Mandal.