On the day of Kartik Shukla Dwitiya, known as Bhai Dooj, a huge gathering of devotees is observed on the banks of the Yamuna River in Tirathaj, Prayagraj. Brothers and sisters hold hands and perform a sacred dip in the Yamuna River.
According to ancient beliefs, bathing and worshipping Yamuna on this day brings the blessings of Yamaraj, which eliminates the fear of premature death and promotes longevity. Pilgrims gather at the embankments from early morning to worship Yamuna Mai and Yamaraj.
According to myths, Yamaraj and Yamuna were brother and sister born from the Sun god. On the day of Kartik Shukla Dwitiya, Yamaraj arrived at his sister Yamuna's home. Yamuna welcomed him and applied a tilak. The joyful Yamaraj bestowed a blessing: any brother who applies a tilak to his sister and bathes in the Yamuna on this day will be protected from the fear of Yama's death.
From early morning, pilgrims gather on the banks of Sangam and Yamuna in Prayagraj. After bathing together, brothers and sisters wish each other well-being, prosperity, and health. Many pilgrims also perform acts of charity and memorial rituals in memory of their ancestors.
This festival, Yam Dwitiya, is a beautiful symbol of Indian culture, family, and eternal faith.
Considering the million people gathered on the embankments, the police and administration are on full alert. Sturdy barriers have been installed on the main embankments to ensure safety. To guarantee the safety of the pilgrims, the water police, constant monitoring of boats, and qualified divers have been deployed so that this sacred festival proceeds safely and in an organized manner.
