Bhai Dooj is known by various names across India, including Bhau Beej, Bhatri Dwitiya, Bhai Dwitiya, and Yam Dwitiya.
Bhai Dooj is a much-celebrated Hindu festival, and is similar to Raksha Bandhan, which means it highlights the unique bond between siblings. Each year, families look forward to the festival, and it has sisters gently applying tilak to their brothers' foreheads, and wish for their long, happy, and healthy life.
Bhai Dooj is celebrated on the second day (Dwitiya) of Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartik. This year, it falls on November 3, 2024. Since Diwali is a 5-day celebration, it starts off with Govatsa Dwadashi and ends with Bhai Dooj. Across India, Bhai Dooj is known by various names like Bhau Beej, Bhatri Dwitiya, Bhai Dwitiya, and Yam Dwitiya, among others. However, the core idea remains the celebration of same-sibling love.
During the rituals, after sisters apply tilak to their brothers, the latter promise to protect their sisters and gifts are exchanged, which is usually followed by a family feast. If you're planning a family get-together on Bhai Dooj, here is our curated list of five delicious dishes that are just nothing short of perfect for the occasion.
As we all can agree, paneer never disappoints when it comes to Indian family celebrations. The Handi Paneer recipe, which is loaded with a mix of spices, tomatoes, and onions, that wrap up the soft paneer cubes perfectly, is an ideal delicacy for Bhai Dooj. Serve it with naan for a satisfying treat for everyone.
A healthier and a better twist on koftas, this recipe is a mix of spinach and mushrooms. They are cooked in a flavorful gravy. It's not only a great option but is also packed with nutrients.
If you're looking for a light dish, try the veggie pulao, which has fresh vegetables roasted on a tawa, and added with rice and a touch of mint.
The classic Punjabi dish, which is made by slow-cooking chickpeas with spices in an onion-tomato gravy, is ideal for a hearty lunch or dinner, and something that most families love.
A board of nothing apart from chaat! You can amp it up by not making just pani puri, dahi bhalla or papdi chaat, but making it into a board of different chaats. It can also have samosas, with a whole lot of chutneys and curd.
Who would not like some green puris made with a spinach paste, and added with whole wheat flour and spices? Well, once fried, serve with curd or your favourite curry.
