Holika Dahan: By worshiping Holika Dahan with proper rituals, negative energy gets destroyed from the house. file photo
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Amarendra Tiwari, Muzaffarpur. Holika Dahan Muhurat: Holi of the year 2026 is going to be very special this time from astronomical and religious point of view. A rare coincidence of full lunar eclipse is taking place on the day of Holika Dahan, a day before Holi.
For this reason, there is confusion among the people regarding the dates and time of Holika Dahan and colorful Holi. According to astrological calculations and almanacs, it is considered especially important to follow the scriptures this time.
Time changed due to eclipse, but tradition remains the same
Dr. Nigam Pandey, Head of the Astrology Department of Dharma Samaj Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya, Muzaffarpur, said that in the year 2026, Holika Dahan will be done on March 2 (Monday). Purnima Tithi will start from 05:55 pm on March 2 and will continue till 05:07 pm on March 3.
On this day, there will be a total lunar eclipse from 03:20 pm to 06:47 pm. According to the scriptures, auspicious works are considered prohibited during the eclipse period and Sutak. For this reason, this year it is considered scriptural to perform Holika Dahan only after the eclipse ends.
Auspicious time for Holika Dahan
Keeping in mind the eclipse and Bhadra period, astrologers have said that the time from 06:48 pm to 08:50 pm is the best for Holika Dahan. After the eclipse is over, it is advised to start worshiping only after bathing and purification. Holi of colors i.e. Dhulendi will be celebrated next day on 4 March 2026 (Wednesday).
symbol of victory of good over evil
होलिका दहन की पौराणिक कथा आज भी समाज को नैतिक संदेश देती है। In the face of the tyranny and arrogance of the demon king Hiranyakashipu, the unwavering devotion of his son Prahlad ultimately emerged victorious. Despite having the boon of not being burnt by fire, Holika herself got burnt to ashes due to misuse of the boon, while Prahlad remained safe. This festival teaches that no matter how powerful unrighteousness is, the victory of truth and devotion is certain.
Worship according to rituals, happiness and peace at home
According to Dr. Pandey, if Holika Dahan is worshiped as per the rituals, positive energy, happiness and prosperity reside in the house. Cow dung cakes, dry wood, Kalava, Roli, Akshat, flowers, turmeric, moong dal, batasha, wheat earrings and water are used in the puja.
At the time of worship, resolutions are taken while facing north or east. Water, flowers and Akshat are offered by wrapping Kalava around Holika. Roasting the ears of the new crop in fire and accepting them as Prasad is considered a symbol of prosperity. At the end, by circling, happiness, peace and well-being of the family is wished.
Chyawanprash is a part of every Indian's life, it reduces diseases and increases energy.