Bhai Dooj retains spark in hectic times

On Saturday brothers and sisters greeted each other by exchanging gifts and sweets to celebrate Bhai Dooj. On this occasion, sisters offer prayers for their brother's long life and the brothers promise to protect their sisters.

Speaking about the celebrations in her family, Smita Bhingarde, 25, Jogeshwari resident, said, "All of us cousins gather in our elder sister's house to celebrate Bhai Dooj every year. My brother works abroad so we celebrate over video calls. Rest of the family comes together to exchange sweets and gifts. We dress up in traditional wear and prepare food for the brothers." The festival, also known as Bhau Beej, is celebrated on the second day after the new moon in the Hindu lunar month of Kartik.

Bilwada Kale, Dombivli resident, said, "This year all of us met at my home to celebrate the festival. We go the traditional way of doing aarti of our brothers, exchanging sweets followed by an elaborate meal. The day ends by seeking blessings of the family's elders."

Pandhari Kadam, Lalbaugh resident said, "I have four sisters and every year I visit every sisters' house. Earlier we used to get together and celebrate but due to busy lives, I dedicate the day to visiting one sister's house."