What is Bhai Dooj?
Bhai Dooj closes the Diwali sequence with the bond between sister and brother, recalling Yamuna’s welcome of her brother Yama. Like Dussehra it is dated by the afternoon *aparahna* window.
How it is observed
A sister applies a tilak to her brother’s forehead, offers sweets, and prays for his long life; he gives a gift in return. Bengal keeps it as Bhai Phota, Maharashtra as Bhau Beej.