Bhathru Dwithiya

On the last day of Diwali festival, known as Bhathru Dwitheya, it is customary for the brothers to go their sisters' house and have food there. This particular custom is named Bhagini Hastha Bhojanam (meals). It is being followed by people in the name of 'Yama' who went to his sister's place to have food. Yama and his record keeper Chithraguptha are worshiped on this day.

Apart from the legend of Yama, other equally significant legends are Lord Krishna and Lord Mahavir. It is said that after Lord Krishna killed the demon Narakasur, he visited his sister Subhadra on dooj day. She gave him a traditional, affectionate welcome by anointing him with tilak. After Mahavir attained nirvana, his brother, Raja Nandivardhan, felt depressed and dejected due to his long absence. He was comforted by Sudarshana, his sister.

With such important events related to this unique festival, Bhathru Dwithiya is completely dedicated to the caring spirit of sisters. The sisters apply a tilak of roli (vermilion), kesar (saffron) and rice on their brother's forehead as a mark of their love and protection. With this the Deepavali festivities comes to an end.