Bhai Dooj in Dogra community known as Tikka, celebrated on the last day of Diwali’s five-day festivities, mostly on the second day of Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik, which, according to the Gregorian calendar, usually falls between October and November. 

Tikka honors the cherished relationship between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for the long life, health, and prosperity of their brothers during this occasion, which is also known as Bhau Beej, Bhatra Dwitiya, Bhai Dwitiya, and Bhai Phonta in different regions.

The Origin of Tikka

According to Hindu mythology, Tikka has roots in the story of Lord Krishna and his sister Subhadra. After Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura, he visited Subhadra, who welcomed him with sweets, flowers, and a tilak on his forehead, creating the tradition of Bhai Dooj. Another legend involves Lord Yama, the god of death, who visited his sister Yamuna. She performed the tilak ritual, and in return, Yama blessed that any brother who receives a tilak from his sister on this day would enjoy longevity.

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Tikka : Important Rituals and Traditions in Dogra community

On this day, sisters celebrate their brothers with a ceremonial tilak on the forehead, followed by an aarti and offerings of sweets, roli, and coconut. Sisters may prepare special meals for their brothers, and brothers, in turn, offer gifts. These rituals foster love, gratitude, and a deeper emotional connection between siblings.

The  tikka rituals  conclude with an exchange of gifts, where the brother gives his sister a token of his love. In some regions, the sister also gives her brother a coconut, a symbol of purity. 

Tikka is a reminder of the unbreakable bond between siblings. This festival fosters unity within families, with brothers and sisters cherishing each other’s presence and support.Tikka is a time for families to celebrate the love that connects them and to honor the sibling bond that stands strong throughout life.