Bhai Dooj 2023: Celebration Date & The Auspicious Muhurat for Tika Ceremony

Bhai Dooj, a revered festival in India, commemorates the unbreakable bond between brothers and sisters. This auspicious occasion, celebrated on the second day of the bright fortnight of the Kartika month, is marked by immense joy, fervor, and the exchange of gifts and blessings. The tika ceremony, a central ritual of Bhai Dooj, holds immense significance as a symbol of love, protection, and good wishes.

The Auspicious Muhurat for Tika Ceremony 2023

This year, the auspicious muhurat for the tika ceremony spans across two days, providing ample opportunities for brothers and sisters to perform this sacred ritual:

• First Muhurat: 02:36 PM on November 14th, 2023, to 01:47 PM on November 15th, 2023

• Second Muhurat: 06:44 AM to 09:24 AM on November 15th, 2023

The tika ceremony can also be performed outside of the muhurat, but it is considered most auspicious to perform it within these specified time frames.

Significance of the Tika Ceremony

The tika ceremony is a deeply symbolic ritual that holds profound significance in the celebration of Bhai Dooj. During the ceremony, sisters apply a tilak, a mark of sandalwood paste or vermilion, on their brothers’ foreheads. This act signifies their blessings, prayers for their well-being and long life, and a reaffirmation of their unwavering bond. The tilak is placed between the eyebrows, considered the seat of consciousness, symbolizing the sister’s wish for her brother’s enlightenment and spiritual growth.

Preparation for the Tika Ceremony

To ensure a smooth and auspicious tika ceremony, sisters often prepare in advance by gathering the necessary items:

• Tilak: Sandalwood paste or vermilion, both considered auspicious and cooling substances

• Kumkum: Red powder used to enhance the tilak and symbolize the sister’s love and affection for her brother

• Akshat: Rice grains that symbolize prosperity and abundance, representing the sister’s wishes for her brother’s success and wealth

• Diya: An oil lamp representing light, purity, and warding off negativity, creating a serene and auspicious atmosphere

• Incense: A fragrant offering to purify the space and invoke blessings

• A plate or tray: To hold all the items mentioned above

Performing the Tika Ceremony

The tika ceremony is typically conducted in a peaceful and positive environment. The sister lights the diya and incense, creating a sacred ambiance. She then washes her brother’s feet and hands, symbolizing respect and cleansing. With a prayerful heart, she applies the tilak on her brother’s forehead, ensuring it is placed between his eyebrows. She then places a few grains of akshat on the tilak, followed by a touch of kumkum. The brother, in return, offers a gift and blessings to his sister, expressing his gratitude and love.

Bhai Dooj: A Festival of Love and Brotherhood

Beyond the tika ceremony, Bhai Dooj is a time to celebrate the unique bond between siblings. It is a day to rekindle old memories, cherish the present, and strengthen the unbreakable connection that brothers and sisters share. Families gather, indulge in delectable delicacies, and exchange heartfelt gifts, creating memories that last a lifetime.

As Bhai Dooj approaches, let us embrace the auspicious muhurat for the tika ceremony and cherish the unbreakable bond of brotherhood and sisterhood. May this festival bring joy, love, and prosperity to all.