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Bhai
Dooj - When Sisters Greet Their Brothers NEW DELHI: Hindus across the country celebrated on Wednesday Bhai Dooj, a festival in which sisters perform a simple ritual and greet their brothers wishing them a long life. In the national Capital, women started visiting their parents' place early in the morning to perform religious rituals before greeting their brothers. The festival symbolises the strong family ties that scriptures advocate for Hindu families. It also celebrates the bond and affection between sisters and brothers. Sisters apply vermilion on their brothers' forehead and wish them long life. "On Bhai Dooj brothers visit sisters and eat food together. The sister wishes her brother success, happiness and long life. The brothers give gifts and affection to the sisters," said Sarika, a sister celebrating Bhai Dooj. For a married girl it is also an occasion for a family get-together. She sends sweets and gifts to her brothers. The festival falls two days after Diwali, the festival of lights. Legend has it that when Lord Rama returned to his kingdom after defeating the demon king Ravana, the womenfolk greeted him and his soldiers by applying vermilion on their foreheads. It has become a tradition since then. -ANI |
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