Bhai Dooj 2021

On the Dvitiya of the Shukla Paksha of Kartika, in autumn — the second day of the bright fortnight, two days after Diwali. For this year's date, see the date shown above.

Because its katha is of Yama, the lord of death, visiting his sister Yamuna on this day. She won from him the boon that a brother who receives his sister's tilak and eats at her home on this day be freed from untimely death.

Both honour the brother-sister bond, but Raksha Bandhan (in Shravana) turns on the sister tying a rakhi, while Bhai Dooj (after Diwali) turns on the sister's home and hospitality — the brother visits her, receives a tilak, and eats a meal she has prepared.

She applies a tilak of roli and akshat on her brother's forehead, performs the aarti, offers him sweets and a meal, and prays for his long life and wellbeing. The brother gives her a gift and pledges his protection.