New Delhi, India — March 5, 2026
The festival of Holi Bhai Dooj, which celebrates the special bond between brothers and sisters, is observed every year on the Dwitiya Tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the Chaitra month according to the Hindu calendar. The festival is traditionally celebrated a day after Holi.
On this day, sisters apply a tilak on their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their long life, prosperity, and well-being.
When is Holi Bhai Dooj 2026?
According to the Drik Panchang, the Chaitra Krishna Dwitiya Tithi, which is required for Holi Bhai Dooj, begins on March 4, 2026 (Wednesday) at 4:48 PM and ends on March 5, 2026 (Thursday) at 5:03 PM.
Based on the Udaya Tithi (sunrise-based calendar), the festival of Holi Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on Thursday, March 5, 2026.
Holi Bhai Dooj 2026 Auspicious Timings
Several auspicious time periods are available on the day for performing rituals and applying the ceremonial tilak.
Shubh Muhurat (Auspicious Morning Time): 06:42 AM – 08:10 AM
Brahma Muhurat: 05:04 AM – 05:53 AM
Abhijit Muhurat: 12:09 PM – 12:56 PM
These time windows are considered favorable for performing religious rituals and prayers.
Rahu Kaal Timing
Devotees are advised to avoid performing the tilak ritual during Rahu Kaal, which is regarded as an inauspicious time period.
Rahu Kaal: 02:00 PM – 03:28 PM
During this period, traditional rituals related to Bhai Dooj should generally be avoided.
Nakshatra and Yog on Holi Bhai Dooj
On the day of Holi Bhai Dooj, Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra will prevail from early morning until 08:17 AM, after which Hasta Nakshatra will begin.
Additionally, Shool Yoga will remain until 07:46 AM, followed by Ganda Yoga for the remainder of the period. Both of these yogas are traditionally not considered highly auspicious.
Religious Significance of Holi Bhai Dooj
Holi Bhai Dooj carries deep cultural and spiritual significance in Hindu tradition. On this day, sisters perform rituals for their brothers’ well-being, applying tilak and offering prayers for their long life and prosperity.
According to Hindu mythology, Yamraj (the god of death) once visited the home of his sister Yamuna on this day. Yamuna welcomed him with respect and hospitality, which pleased Yamraj.
In return, Yamraj granted a blessing that any brother who visits his sister on Bhai Dooj and receives her blessings would be protected from untimely death.
Because of this belief, Bhai Dooj is celebrated twice each year—once after Holi and again after Diwali.
