About Bhai Dooj
Bhai Dooj, known by many regional names such as Bhai Tika, Bhau Beej and Bhratri Dwitiya, is the last day of the Diwali festival and celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. According to popular legend, Yama, the god of death, visited his sister Yamuna on this day and was welcomed so warmly that he blessed all brothers honoured by their sisters. The festival is a heartfelt occasion for affection, protection and family togetherness.
On this day sisters apply a tilak or tika to their brothers foreheads, perform aarti, and pray for their long life and well-being, while brothers offer gifts and pledge to protect their sisters. Families gather for a festive meal, often with special sweets and the sister cooking her brother's favourite dishes. The customs vary by region, from the elaborate seven-colour tika of Nepal to the warm gatherings across northern, western and central India.
Bhai Dooj follows the Hindu lunar calendar, falling on the second day of the bright fortnight of Kartik, two days after the main Diwali night, so its Gregorian date moves each year, usually in October or November. The live countdown above always tracks the next Bhai Dooj for you. If you would like to keep the date close, you can add this countdown to your own page in a few clicks.
Upcoming dates
| 2026 | Wednesday, November 11, 2026next |
| 2027 | Sunday, October 31, 2027 |
| 2028 | Thursday, October 19, 2028 |
| 2029 | Wednesday, November 7, 2029 |
FAQ
When is Bhai Dooj this year and what date is it?
Bhai Dooj falls on the second day of the bright fortnight of Kartik, two days after Diwali, usually in October or November. Because it follows the Hindu lunar calendar the date changes each year, so check the live countdown above.
Why is Bhai Dooj celebrated?
It celebrates the love between brothers and sisters and draws on the legend of Yama visiting his sister Yamuna. Sisters pray for their brothers long life while brothers pledge to protect their sisters.
How is Bhai Dooj celebrated?
Sisters apply a tilak to their brothers foreheads, perform aarti and offer prayers and sweets, while brothers give gifts in return. Families come together for a festive meal.
How is Bhai Dooj connected to Diwali?
It is the fifth and final day of the Diwali festival, falling two days after the main Diwali night. It closes the celebrations on a note of family love, much like Raksha Bandhan.