Mathura, Oct 23 (NationPress) A profound sense of devotion enveloped Mathura during the celebrated festival of Bhai Dooj, which takes place just two days after the Diwali festivities. Known as Yama Dwitiya and occurring on Kartik Shukla Dwitiya, this occasion attracted a staggering number of participants to the banks of the Yamuna River. Approximately 1.25 lakh devotees converged at Vishram Ghat to partake in the sacred bathing ritual, a pivotal moment of the day.

The historic Yamraj Temple, situated along the banks of the Yamuna at Vishram Ghat, served as the focal point for the festivities, hosting the primary bathing rites. Individuals of all ages, from elders to young children, immersed themselves in the hallowed waters with unwavering faith, as they believe this practice bestows liberation from premature death. Brothers and sisters joined together in this sacred act, representing love, protection, and the desire for longevity.

Following the ritual bath, sisters placed their brothers on a raised platform, applying tilak to their foreheads. They then made their way to the nearby Yamraj-Yamuna Temple, where they engaged in worship by lighting lamps and offering prayers in accordance with Vedic customs. The priests present performed the rituals on behalf of the devotees, reciting hymns and invoking blessings for the siblings.

Rooted in Hindu mythology, Bhai Dooj commemorates the bond between Yamraj, the deity of death, and his sister Yamuna. It is said that Yamraj, bound by his responsibilities in Yampuri, once honored his sister's invitation on Kartik Shukla Dwitiya. Grateful for her hospitality, he granted her a blessing: any brother who visits his sister, shares a meal at her home, and receives her blessings on this day would be granted longevity, prosperity, and protection from untimely demise.

Since then, Bhai Dooj has been recognized as a celebration of sibling affection and safeguarding. In Mathura, the practice of bathing together in the Yamuna holds particular significance, believed to bring joy, prosperity, and good luck. During the puja, sisters petition Yamraj and Yamuna for their brothers' long lives, seeking blessings akin to the immortality of the eight great immortals: Markandeya, Hanuman, Bali, Parashurama, Vyasa, Vibhishana, Kripacharya, and Ashwatthama.