October 26th - The fifth and final day of the Diwali Festival is known as "Bhai Duj". In India�s Hindi-speaking belt, it is referred to as "Bhau-Bij"; whilst in the Marathi-speaking communities and in Nepal belt it is referred to as "Bhai-Tika".
On Bhai Duja sisters apply tilak to their brothers, and pray for their long and happy life. In all likelihood, this ritual was originally intended for married women. Since they celebrated Diwali with their in-laws, this festival allowed them to return to their parent's home during this auspicious time. These days among many communities Bhai Duja is observed by both married and unmarried sisters.
Legend has it that Yamraj, the God of Death visited his sister Yami on this particular day. She put the auspicious tilak on his forehead, garlanded him and fed him with special dishes and both of them partook of sweets while they talked and enjoyed themselves (to their heart's content). When parting Yamraj gave her Yami a special gift, as a token of his love. In return Yami gave Yamraj a lovely gift, which she�d made, with her own hands. That day, Yamraj announced that anyone who received tilak from his sister would never be thrown. That is why the day commonly referred to as Bhayyaduj, is also known by the name of "Yama-Dwitiya". Since then, this day is observed as a symbol of love between sisters and brothers. It is very important for the brother to visit his sister's home in observance of this holiday.