Bhai Dooj – It is that time of the day when we put all our tattling and fighting aside and express our love for our siblings. You might have just fought with your brother or maybe your sister was your partner-in-crime in your recent mischiefs. Whatever the case no sibling can ever stop their urge to celebrate their bond during Bhai Dooj.
So what is Bhai Dooj?
This festival is similar to the festival of Raksha Bandhan celebrated in India. It is celebrated on the fifth day of Diwali. We’ll dive into a bit of the mythology here to tell you how it all started.
The story goes that the demon Narakasura kidnapped 16,000 princesses. Lord Krishna however does not allow the demon to do as he pleases and comes to their rescue. After a fierce battle with the demon, Lord Krishna emerges victorious. Once the princesses are safe he goes to meet his sister Subhadra. Overjoyed by his visit, Subhadra greets him with flowers and sweets, applies tilak to his forehead and performs aarti. This is said to mark the beginning of Bhai Dooj.
Being a festival that is celebrated all across India, it has its own variations in name and even how it is celebrated. The festival is known by different names in different regions such as Bhaubeej, Bhai Tika, Bhai Phonta, etc. In the southern part of India, it is celebrated as Yama Dwitiya.
During the rituals, sisters feed sweets to their brothers, apply tikka to their forehead, perform aarti and wish for their well-being. Many other rituals are performed depending on the part of India it is celebrated in.
However, you do not have to stick to these traditional celebrations alone. This Bhai Dooj why not jazz up the festivities and give your own twist to celebrating your sibling? You can create your own special traditions and rituals – something that is special to the two of you.
If you’re up for the idea then here are a few suggestions for you to look into –
Watch Their Favourite Movie
Is there a movie that they’ve always been wanting to watch? Then what are you waiting for? Book your movie tickets or get your living room ready for movie night. Celebrate your sibling with a wonderful movie and some popcorn to go with it.
Take a #Siblings Only Vacation
When was the last time when you went somewhere with just your sibling? Maybe a long time ago. Or maybe never. Well, don’t hesitate this time. Plan a fun vacation together and spend some quality one-on-one time.
Give them the Perfect Gift
Is there a book that your sibling has always wanted to read? Or maybe they want a video game or a specific dress. Whatever it is, now is the perfect time to gift wrap that item and give it to them. Nothing better than bringing a smile on your sibling’s face.
Go on a Coffee Date
Another thing that you might have never done before. This Bhai Dooj, take your sibling out to coffee and catch up on all the important things you’ve not had the time to talk to each other about.
Go Old School and Play some Sports and Games
Is there a favourite game you all played when you were children? Or maybe there is a sport you all enjoy even now? Well, how about strengthening your bond by playing these nostalgic games and having a fun game night? Maybe you can even turn it into a whole day event. The choice is completely yours.
Also Read 10 Games That Can Add More Fun To Any Event!
Create a Video for Them
Another thing that you can do is create a touching video to show them how much they mean to you. You could even give it your own spin and sprinkle some fun pictures of them here and there.
Plan a Party
If they’re someone who loves parties then you can show your appreciation by hosting a party for them. Invite your closest friends and families and have a wonderful time with good food, great dancing and fantastic company.
Write a Letter
An OG but a goodie. Write a letter to your sibling telling them how much they mean to you. Your sibling would never expect this and it would become a precious memory for them in the future.
Also Read Top 21 Home Decor Ideas
Make Some Delicious Food
Nothing says love like some lip-smacking homemade food. Maybe you can make a whole meal for them or you could make them a few treats. Enjoy your handmade goodies together and savour the special day.
Look Back at Old Memories
Bhai Dooj is the perfect day to have a look back at the old days. You can take a look at pictures or talk about all the mischief you might have created together. What better way to celebrate the bond between siblings than by realising how far you’ve come together?
Go Out with Your Sibling
Going out with your sibling is another great idea. You can visit an amusement park, a zoo, a museum and whatnot. Explore all those places with your sibling that have always been on their bucket list.
Pull Some Harmless Pranks
If we’re going back to tradition then we just can’t forget the small pranks that we used to pull on our siblings. This Bhai Dooj how about starting a completely unique tradition? Pull some harmless pranks on each other and have a heartwarming moment; reminiscing about the old days and laughing at each other.
Well, we’ve given you some of our suggestions to spice up your Bhai Dooj. Maybe you wanna try some of these, maybe you wanna try all of these or maybe you have a brilliant idea of your own.
The most important rule of the day is to have fun. Bhai Dooj is a beautiful festival celebrating the love and bond between siblings.
You’ve spent most of your life together, you’re always there for each other, and most importantly, despite what you say, we know you love each other.
We hope that you have a wonderful time celebrating Bhai Dooj with your sibling !!