Bhai Phota

A ritual involving brother and sister, Bhai Phota is observed by Bengalies that is almost similar to the north Indian Bhai Dhooj. However, sometimes due to specific timings according to Hindu calendar, Bhai Phota may be celebrated on the third day of the month of Kartik, instead of the second. On Bhai Phota sisters apply tilak to brother's foreheads with mantras for long and happy life.

On the day of Bhai Phota, both brothers and sisters are decked in finery. Sisters apply a sandalwood paste ' tilak' or mask known as Phota on the forehead of their brothers, place some paddy grass known as "Dub" or "Dubya" on their heads and chant a verse for the siblings long life. Then they place a sweet in the brother's mouth. Of course, the ceremony is rounded off with a grand meal and the exchange of gifts. The merriment of Bhai Phota is increased amid the resounding of conch shells in every Bengali household.

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FIRST DAY:
Dhanatrayodashi | Yamadeepdaan | Dhan Teyras | Asweyuja Bahula Thrayodasi / Dhantheran
SECOND DAY:
Choti Diwali | Narkachaturdashi | Roop Chaturdashi | Kali Choudas | Mahanisha / Kali Puja | Divvela Panduga / Divili Panduga
THIRD DAY:
Laxmi Pujan | Chopda Pujan | Deva Divali | Sukhsuptika | Kaumudi Mahostavam | Badhausar | Balindra Pooja | Karthigai Deepam | Thalai Deepavali | Sharda Pujan | Bandi Chhor Diwas | Diyari
FORTH DAY:
Goverdhan puja | Bestavarsh | Gudi Padava | Varsha Pratipada/ Pratipad Padwa | Annakoot | Bali Padyam / Bali Pratipada | Muharat Pujan
FIFTH DAY:
Bhai Phota | Bhaubeej / Bhav-Bij | Bhai-Tika | Yamadwitheya / Bhathru Dwithiya | Gorehabba | Bhatri Ditya | Bhathru Dwithiya
RELATED FESTIVALS:
Kojagara | Labh Pancham | Tulsi Vivah

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