Holika Dahan 2022: Today is the first day of the popular Hindu festival Holi, also known as Choti Holi or Holika Dahan. This traditional ritual involves burning an effigy of a mythical demonic named Holika. People light a bonfire on Holika Dahan and a special puja is performed to mark the occasion and ward off evil spirits.
Read also: Puja Vidhi Of Holika Dahan
Importance of Choti Holi
Traditionally, on the day of Choti Holi, people enjoy the killing of the demon Holika by Vishnu to save Prahlad, who was a devotee of Lord Vishnu. A night before Holi, in keeping with this tradition, pyres are lit in parts of North India, Nepal and South India. The fire lit on the eve of Holi (Holika Dahan) symbolizes the burning of Holika.
It is celebrated on the full moon night on the Pratipada date of Krishna Paksha of Falgun month.
Holika Dahan Muhurta
According to the Drik Panchang Holika Dahan Muhurta is from 9:06 pm to 10:16 pm. The duration of Holika Dahan is one hour and 10 minutes. On the basis of religious belief, the time of worship of Holika is considered to be of Pradosh period. Pradosh Kaal timings will start from 6:40 PM.
Bhadra Pancha: 9:06 pm to 10:16 pm
Bhadra Mukha: 10:16 pm on 17th March to 12:10 am on 18th March
Holika Dahan Sunset: March 17 at 6:32 pm – Pradosh (period after sunset) begins
Purnima Tithi: March 17 from 1:29 pm to March 18 at 12:47 pm
It is believed that Holika should be worshiped for family happiness, peace and disease prevention and long life of children. The bonfire commemorates the victory of good over evil. The second day known as Dhuleti or Holi is marked by playing with colours, people exchanging sweets and mingling with loved ones.