Certain communities celebrate Bhai Dooj on the second day of Holi wherein sisters pray for their brothers’ welfare. Brothers give gifts and blessings. Though most communities observe Bhai Dooj on second day of Diwali, this Bhai Dooj is equally important. Free Press talked to families for their views. Excerpts
Seeking protection
“My mother (Rajmata Jhabua L R Laxmi) belonged to Nepal’s Rana dynasty. It is from her that our family learned about Bhai Dooj, celebrated a day after Holi. She always invited her brothers for this festival. She often narrated stories about Holi and Bhai Dooj. While a wife is equally important, a sister praying for protection for her brother holds significance.”
Familty ties
“For us, Bhai Dooj is an important festival to stay connected with our roots and keep our bonds alive. We have lived in Africa for couple of years. Distance makes us realise importance of our traditions and bonds. We celebrate Holi with fervour and our celebrations continue till Bhai Dooj with prayers from our sisters.”
Tradition and trip
“We celebrate both the Bhai Dooj as per traditions. This year, we decided to add more fun to Bhai Dooj and Holi by taking a trip together to Goa. Even here, we prepared puja thali that had coconut, batashas, sweets, fruits, seven paans, roli and rice. Our sister lit puja lamp and did traditional puja. After she applied tika on forehead, we surprised her with new dress and sweets.”
Coming together
“We come together for large, traditional celebration on both Bhai Dooj. Eldest sister hosted a lunch party and we had a meal together. After Holi, this day helps us in finding our strengths.”