Bhai Dooj 2026: Date, Why It Is Celebrated and Outfit Ideas

Bhai Dooj is the last day of Diwali and celebrates the special bond between brothers and sisters. In 2026 it falls on Wednesday 11 November (some calendars show Tuesday 10 November, so check with your family or temple).

Why is Bhai Dooj celebrated?

The best-known story is about Yamraj, the god of death, who visited his sister Yamuna on this day. She welcomed him with a tilak, sweets and a meal, and he blessed her, saying any brother who visits his sister on this day will be protected. It is also linked to Lord Krishna visiting his sister Subhadra after defeating the demon Narakasura. That is why sisters pray for their brothers’ long and happy lives on Bhai Dooj.

How Bhai Dooj is celebrated

• The sister puts a tilak of roli and rice on her brother’s forehead and does an aarti.
• She offers sweets and often cooks his favourite meal.
• The brother gives a gift and promises to look after her.
• In Australia, many families celebrate over a video call when brothers and sisters live in different cities or countries.

It is also called Bhau Beej, Bhai Phonta and Bhai Tika in different parts of India.

What to wear for Bhai Dooj

Bhai Dooj is a family day, so most people wear something comfortable but festive – often a lighter version of their Diwali outfit.

• Sisters – a suit, kurti set or ready-to-wear saree.
• Brothers – a cotton or chikankari kurta pajama.
• Little brothers and sisters – our boys’ kurta pajama and organic cotton girls’ sets are perfect for photos.

Gift ideas

A new outfit makes a lovely Bhai Dooj gift – brothers often gift a suit or saree, and sisters gift a kurta. We also make festive gift hampers. Message us on WhatsApp on 0450 649 304 with your budget and we will help you choose.

Read our full guide to Diwali 2026 in Australia. Visit Style World at 251 Frontier Ave, Aintree, or get $16 delivery anywhere in Australia.