Bhai Dooj 2025: Which Finger To Use For Tilak? Astrologers Explain The Right Way To Bless Your Brother

Bhai Dooj 2025: Date, Significance, and Rituals

 

Bhai Dooj, one of the most cherished Hindu festivals, celebrates the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. The festival falls on the Dwitiya Tithi of Kartik Shukla Paksha, just two days after Diwali. This year, Bhai Dooj will be observed on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

On this day, sisters pray for their brothers’ long lives and prosperity by applying a ceremonial tilak on their foreheads and performing aarti. Brothers, in return, give gifts and promise protection and affection.

The Common Mistake During Bhai Dooj Tilak

Traditionally, many sisters use their ring finger (anamika) to apply tilak. But experts say this is not astrologically correct.

As per Hindu scriptures and astrological traditions, the ring finger is associated with the Sun (Surya) and symbolizes divine authority. It should therefore be used only when applying tilak to gods, saints, or elders, not equals like siblings.

Using the ring finger for a brother is believed to dilute the spiritual energy of the ritual, according to astrologers.

Which Finger Should Be Used For Tilak On Bhai Dooj 2025?

Astrology experts recommend using the thumb (angutha) to apply tilak on Bhai Dooj.

The thumb represents energy, strength, and victory — qualities symbolically transferred to the brother through the ritual. In ancient times, before warriors went to battle, queens and sisters would apply a tilak with their thumbs, invoking blessings for courage and triumph.

Using the thumb is not only spiritually potent but also astrologically auspicious, enhancing positivity and harmony in sibling relationships.

Spiritual and Astrological Meaning Behind the Thumb

1. Represents Fire and Air Elements:
   According to astrology, the thumb governs the Agni (fire) and Vayu (air) elements. Using it enhances the ritual’s energy and blesses the brother with vitality and enthusiasm.
2. Symbol of Strength and Success:
   The thumb denotes willpower, stability, and control. Applying tilak with it encourages confidence, courage, and victory over obstacles.
3. Associated With Prosperity:
   The gesture is said to invite good fortune, career growth, and wealth, as the thumb connects to the planet Mars (Mangal), symbolizing strength and achievement.
4. Practical and Comfortable:
   It’s easier to apply tilak with the thumb, especially for children or elderly sisters performing the ritual.

Astrologers’ Tips For Bhai Dooj 2025

To perform the Bhai Dooj tilak correctly this year, astrologers suggest the following:

• Face east or north during the ritual.
• Apply tilak with the thumb, not the ring finger.
• Recite traditional mantras while doing aarti.
• Offer sweets, coconut, and gifts as part of the ritual.
• Perform the ceremony during the shubh muhurat for maximum blessings.

 

Final Takeaway

This Bhai Dooj 2025, make your prayers more powerful by using your thumb to apply the tilak. Avoid the ring finger — it’s meant for gods, not brothers.