Happy Bhai Dooj

According to our legends,

Bhai Dooj is also known as the ' Yama Dwitiya'. It is believed that on this auspicious day, the God of Death Yamaraja visits His sister, Yamuna. Yamuna welcomes Her brother by putting a tilak on His head and so the ritual of tilak is so popular.

According to another famous legend, after Lord Krishna killed the demon, Narakasura. He went to His sister Subhadra who welcomed Him with flowers, lamp and put a tilak to mark His victory. Hence, the ritual of tilak came into existence. 

Whatever be the myth or the story behind the festival, the ritual of tilak is the most important part. In Bengal, this event is known as 'Bhai Phota' where 'Phota' means tilak. This tilak or the protective spot on forehead is put to guard the brother against any danger. Also, it is believed that anyone who receives a tilak from his sister on this day would never be put through hell.