Holika Dahan 2024: It’s a significant event in Hinduism, and is celebrated with immense fervor. This festive occasion falls on the full moon day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Phalgun. The accompanying story holds a unique significance as well.
Holika Dahan 2024
In Hindu culture, numerous significant fasts and festivals are joyously celebrated, with Holi festival holding a special place. The festivities kick off with Holika Dahan, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. According to religious scriptures, Holika Dahan commemorates the victory of Prahlad, a devout follower of Lord Narayana, over the wicked intentions of King Hiranyakashyapu. This festival is also known as Chhoti Holi and Holika Deepak in various regions of India, with both spiritual and scientific significance intertwined in its celebration.
Holika Dahan Date and time
Based on the Panchang, the full moon date of Phalgun month will commence at 9.54 am on March 24 and conclude at 12.29 pm the following day. As a result, Holika Dahan will take place on Sunday, March 24. The auspicious time for Holika Dahan will begin at 11.13 pm and continue until 12.27 pm, allowing for a total of 1 hour and 14 minutes to light the Holika and perform the Holika Dahan puja.
Customs for Holika Dahan?
According to the Hindu calendar, Holika Dahan is organized every year during Pradosh period on the full moon date of Shukla Paksha of Phalgun month. This event is organized in some open place of the village or locality. Holika and the devotee Prahlad are installed on a pyre made of cow dung, known as Gulari or Badkulla.After this, during the auspicious time of Holika Dahan, a shield made of cow dung is also kept near Holika and four garlands made of mouli, flowers, gulal, shield and toys made of cow dung are kept separately. Of these, one garland is dedicated to the ancestors, the second garland is kept for Hanuman ji, the third garland is kept for Shitala Mata and the fourth garland is kept for the family
Holika Dahan puja Vidhi
During the Holika Dahan worship ceremony, a plate filled with Roli, garland, Akshat, scent, flowers, incense, jaggery, raw cotton thread, batase, coconut, and punch fruits is placed as the puja material. These items are arranged near Holika before the ritual begins. Following this, the raw cotton thread is respectfully wound around Holika 7 to 11 times. Once the Holika Dahan is completed, each material is offered to Holika one by one, followed by the offering of Arghya with water. As a tradition, after the ritual, Panch Phal and toys made of sugar are dedicated as Aahuti.
History of Holika Dahan
Legend has it that there was a king named Hiranyakashipu who ruled the earth and was known as the greatest adversary of Lord Vishnu. Despite his decree that no one in his kingdom should worship God, his son Prahlad remained a devout follower of Lord Vishnu. Enraged by his son’s devotion, Hiranyakashipu attempted to punish Prahlad multiple times, only to have Lord Vishnu protect him each time.
In a desperate move, the tyrannical king turned to his sister Holika for help. Holika, who was immune to fire, decided to enter the flames with Prahlad in her arms. However, thanks to the divine intervention of Lord Vishnu, Holika perished in the fire while Prahlad emerged unscathed. This event led to the celebration of the Holika Dahan festival, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Scientific reason for Holika Dahan
During the transition from winter to summer, Holi is celebrated in the spring season. In ancient times, bathing regularly during winter was not a common practice, leading to an increased risk of skin diseases. The underlying scientific rationale for Holika Dahan is that the harmful bacteria in the environment are eradicated by the burning wood during this festival. Additionally, by encircling Holika, the germs clinging to the body are also eliminated due to the heat of the bonfire. In certain regions, people apply Holika ashes on their forehead and body after Holika Dahan, believed to promote mental and physical well-being.
FAQ about Holika Dahan
What is the significance of Holika Dahan?
Based on the Panchang, the full moon date of Phalgun month will begin at 9.54 am on March 24 and will conclude at 12.29 pm the following day. As a result, Holika Dahan will take place on Sunday, March 24. The auspicious time for Holika Dahan will commence at 11.13 pm and will continue until 12.27 pm, allowing for a total of 1 hour and 14 minutes to light the Holika and perform the Holika Dahan puja.
What is the story of burning of Holika?
Hiranyakashyap plotted to murder his son with the assistance of his sister, Holika, who was impervious to fire. Holika deceived Prahlad into sitting on a pyre alongside her, expecting him to be consumed by the fire. However, much to everyone’s surprise, it was Holika who turned into ashes, whereas Prahlad remained unharmed.
What is the ritual of Holika Dahan?
The primary ceremony linked to Holika Dahan involves igniting the bonfire. Prior to lighting the bonfire, individuals conduct a puja (worship) to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu. Additionally, they present flowers, sweets, and various offerings to the fire.
What is the myth behind Holi festival?
The customs of Holi differ across India and are based on Indian mythology. Many regions link the festival to the story of Hiranyakashipu, an ancient demon king.
What is the difference between Holi and Holika Dahan?
Prior to the festival of colors, Holi, Holika Dahan is observed by Hindus with enthusiasm and grandeur. This day, also called ‘Choti Holi,’ signifies the victory of good over evil, with Lord Vishnu saving Prahlad from the fire while Holika perished.