Holi, the festival of colors, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy across India and around the world. It is celebrated on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Phalguna, which falls in February or March. In 2023, the full moon date will start on March 6 at 4.17 pm and will continue till March 7 at 6.09 pm.
Importance of Holika Dahan in Hindu Mythology
Holika Dahan, the ritual of burning Holika, which signifies the victory of good over evil, is performed on the night before Holi. The auspicious time for Holika Dahan is considered more important than any other festival time.
The timing of Holika Dahan varies from city to city based on the sunset time. In cities where the sunset will occur before 6.09 pm on March 7, Holika Dahan will be performed on March 6. In other cities, it will be performed on March 7.
Different Holi Celebrations Across India
According to the Panchang, the auspicious time and method of Holika Dahan varies by city. In Ujjain and Varanasi, the auspicious time for Holika Dahan is between 12.40 AM and 5.56 AM on the intervening night of March 6-7. In New Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Bhopal, Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, and Hyderabad, it will be performed between 6.24 PM and 9.11 PM on March 7. In Kolkata, Ranchi, and Patna, it will be performed between 5.42 PM and 6.09 PM on March 7.
To perform Holika Dahan, start by remembering Lord Ganpati, then sprinkle Gangajal on Holika. Offer turmeric, kumkum, akshat, gulal, coconut, cow dung garland, flowers, and wheat earrings to Holika. Offer all the ingredients while chanting mantras of Lord Narasimha and Prahlad. Circumambulate seven times while offering water to Holika. Men should perform this ritual.
The Indian government has declared a holiday for Holika Dahan and Holi on March 7 and 8, respectively. Let us celebrate Holi with joy and enthusiasm while following all the COVID-19 safety guidelines. Happy Holi!