To the brother who annoys me most and protects me always, Happy Bhai Dooj. ❤️🙏
Bhai Dooj 2026: date, meaning and wishes
Wednesday, 11 November 2026 21 days to go
Some calendars list 10 November. Check your local panchang.
The last day of Diwali, for brothers and sisters.
What Bhai Dooj means
Bhai Dooj, also called Bhau Beej or Bhai Phonta, closes the Diwali festival. Sisters apply tilak to their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their long life, and brothers promise protection and give gifts in return.
The story behind it is of Yama, the god of death, visiting his sister Yamuna, who welcomed him with a tilak and a meal. Yama declared that any brother who receives tilak from his sister on this day would be blessed with long life.
Rituals and puja
- Tilak and aarti by the sister
- A special meal cooked for the brother
- Exchange of gifts and sweets
Bhai Dooj wishes
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Frequently asked questions
When is Bhai Dooj in 2026?
Most calendars list Bhai Dooj on 11 November 2026, while some list 10 November.
How is Bhai Dooj different from Raksha Bandhan?
On Raksha Bandhan a sister ties a rakhi; on Bhai Dooj she applies tilak and prays for her brother's long life. Both celebrate the bond between siblings.