Bhai Dooj: Celebrating the Sweet Bond of Siblings
It’s officially the festive season in India, something everyone looks forward to. This one week of celebrations feels like a story that keeps unfolding, one festival after another. It begins with Dhanteras, when families buy something new and hopeful. It continues with the lights and laughter of Diwali, and then welcomes the Hindu New Year with joy and good food. But that’s not where it ends.
As the diyas still glow in the corners of our homes, we celebrate Bhai Dooj, a day that belongs to brothers and sisters. This day is all about nostalgia, some nok-jhok, and performing the rituals to keep the traditions alive. But you know what perfectly completes this day? The traditional foods on Bhai Dooj, which are sweet, crispy, and comforting, much like the bond you share with your sibling.
What is Bhai Dooj and Why is it Celebrated?
Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhaiya Dooj, Bhau Beej, Bhai Phonta, is celebrated two days after Diwali and is the final day of the five-day Diwali celebrations. It’s observed on the second lunar day of the bright fortnight in the Hindu month of Kartika. The festival is celebrated across India and Nepal, and is also known as Yama Dwitiya in southern India.
There are a few stories behind its origin. It is said that Lord Krishna visited his sister Subhadra after defeating the demon Narakasura. She greeted him with sweets, flowers, and a tilak, a gesture that became the essence of Bhai Dooj. Another legend tells the story of Yama, the God of Death, visiting his sister Yamuna on this day. Their reunion came to symbolise love, protection, and the wish for long life.
The name itself carries meaning: “Bhai” means brother, and “Dooj” refers to the second day after the new moon. Together, it stands for a day dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters.
How is Bhai Dooj Celebrated?
On Bhai Dooj, sisters invite their brothers home, prepare a small thali with sweets, rice, flowers, and a diya, and do a short aarti. They apply a tilak on their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their happiness, long life, and protection from all harm. Brothers, in return, offer gifts and promise to stand by their sisters.
After the pooja, siblings often enjoy a festive meal together, sharing laughter and homemade dishes. Even today, those far apart keep the tradition alive through calls, messages, or sending treats. It’s the love, care, and small shared moments that make Bhai Dooj truly special.
Which are the Best Traditional Food Options to Cook on Bhai Dooj
If yes, here’s a little guide to traditional foods on Bhai Dooj, all made with a healthy twist using Sadabahar Kachi Ghani mustard oil. From the sweet treats that everyone loves to the savoury snacks that complete the festive meal, these dishes make the day feel extraordinary. The following options come with a tip on how to serve them as well.
Traditional Sweets:
Shakkar Para: These sweet and crunchy golden bites are perfect to keep in a bowl for nibbling while catching up before lunch.
Jalebi: There’s really no wrong time for jalebi. Serve it with milk for breakfast if your brother visits in the morning, or pair it with rabri after lunch for a festive treat.
Karanji / Gujiya: No Bhai Dooj plate is complete without something sweet and crispy alongside puris and rotis. And these coconut-stuffed gujiyas fried in Sadabahar kachi ghani mustard oil are just perfect.
Savoury Snacks:
Mathri: Swap papad for mathri with rice. It’s a comforting combination, especially when served with green chutney and a few diced cucumber and tomato on top.
Samosa: Remember sneaking your sibling’s samosas as kids? Make some extra this time so you can both enjoy them together and relive those memories. Pair with fresh hari chutney for a complete taste experience.
Farsan: Have you thought about what to serve with chai after lunch? . How about some light-fried farsan with hot masala?!
Why Choose Kachi Ghani Mustard Oil for Cooking on Bhai Dooj?
Sadabahar kachi ghani mustard oil is traditionally extracted using a wooden or steel ghani. This method preserves its natural nutrients, aroma, and authentic flavour.
It is rich in good fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, making it a healthier choice for cooking festive foods.
With a high smoke point, it is ideal for frying sweets and savouries, ensuring they stay crisp without absorbing excess oil.
Using Kachi Ghani mustard oil enhances taste, adds a distinctive aroma, and allows you to celebrate Bhai Dooj’s traditional food without worrying about your health.
We know you have overindulged in sweets and snacks during Diwali. But you don’t have to skip them on Bhai Dooj. Just switch to a healthier oil with Sadabahar and enjoy everything you love eating!
