Holika Dahan, also known as Chhoti Holi, is a significant Hindu festival that symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. It is celebrated a day before Holi, the festival of colors.
Today, people light a bonfire to re-enact an ancient mythological event that teaches the value of faith, righteousness, and devotion to God.
➥ When is Holika Dahan in 2025?
- Date: Sunday, March 16, 2025
- Auspicious Muhurat for Holika Dahan: 06:25 PM to 08:51 PM (timing may vary based on location)
- Purnima Tithi Begins: 05:01 AM on March 16, 2025
- Purnima Tithi Ends: 06:09 AM on March 17, 2025
Holika Dahan is performed during Pradosh Kaal, just after sunset but before midnight. It is important to follow the correct timing to receive divine blessings.
➥ Why is Holika Dahan Celebrated?
Holika Dahan is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, particularly the story of Prahlad and Holika from the Vishnu Purana. The story teaches us that no matter how powerful evil forces seem, faith and righteousness will always prevail.
➲ The Legend of Holika & Prahlad
Once upon a time, there was a demon king named Hiranyakashipu. He was arrogant and wanted everyone in his kingdom to worship him as a god. However, his own son, Prahlad, was a great devotee of Lord Vishnu and refused to obey his father’s orders. This angered Hiranyakashipu, and he tried several times to kill his own son, but Prahlad was always saved by divine intervention.
Desperate, the king sought help from his sister, Holika, who had a magical boon that made her immune to fire. She tricked Prahlad into sitting on her lap in a burning pyre, hoping to burn him alive. However, due to Lord Vishnu’s protection, Holika was burned to ashes, and Prahlad emerged unharmed. This event is commemorated every year as Holika Dahan, symbolizing the destruction of evil and the victory of faith.
➥ Holika Dahan Rituals & Traditions
Holika Dahan is more than just lighting a bonfire; it is a spiritual and cultural celebration. Here’s how it is observed:
➲ Collecting Wood & Setting Up the Bonfire
- People start collecting wood, dry leaves, cow dung cakes, and other combustible materials days before the festival.
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- In many places, a large structure of Holika and Prahlad is built using these materials.
➲ Performing Puja & Offerings
- A priest or elderly member of the family lights the fire at the auspicious time.
- Offerings like coconut, wheat, mustard seeds, sugarcane, and gulal (colored powder) are thrown into the fire.
- Prayers are recited, seeking protection from evil forces and prosperity for the family.
➲ Circumambulating the Fire (Parikrama)
- Devotees walk around the fire (usually 3 or 7 times) while chanting mantras.
- People tie a sacred thread (moli) around the fire and seek blessings.
➲ Applying Ash for Purification
- The next morning, the ash from the bonfire is collected and applied to the forehead, as it is believed to have purifying and protective properties.
➥ How Holika Dahan is Celebrated Across India
Although Holika Dahan is celebrated all over India, different regions have unique customs:
➲ North India (Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, Delhi, Punjab)
- Huge Holika effigies are set on fire, and people dance around it.
- Devotional bhajans (songs) are sung in praise of Lord Vishnu.
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➲ Maharashtra & Gujarat
- Families burn Holika and distribute puran poli (a sweet flatbread).
- Some communities burn a replica of Ravan, symbolizing victory over ego.
➲ West Bengal & Odisha
- Known as Dol Purnima, Holika Dahan is followed by cultural performances and plays based on Prahlad’s story.
➥ Holika Dahan: A Deeper Meaning
Holika Dahan is not just about lighting a fire; it carries a deeper spiritual significance:
🔥 Burning Negativity – Just like Holika was burned, we should burn our egos, anger, jealousy, and hatred.
🙏 Faith Over Fear – Like Prahlad, we should stay firm in our beliefs, even when facing difficulties.
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🌿 Beginning a New Chapter – The festival marks the end of winter and the start of a new season full of positivity.
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