Time & Muhurat (New Delhi, India)
Holika Dahan Muhurat : 23:30:14 to 24:24:09, Duration : 0 Hour 53 Minute
Bhadra Punchha : 19:13:07 to 20:30:15
Bhadra Mukha : 20:30:15 to 22:38:48
Holika Dahan, the first day of the 2025 Holi celebration, takes place on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Falgun. The following day is celebrated as the Festival of Colors, also known as Dhulendi, Dhulandi, or Dhuli. Holi signifies the triumph of good over evil.
The eight-day period known as Holashtak begins on the eighth day of the bright half of the Falgun month and lasts until the full moon. During this time, auspicious activities are avoided. On Purnima (full moon day), the Holika Dahan bonfire ceremony is performed, adhering to two key rules:
- Bhadra should not be present: Bhadra, also known as Vishti Karan, is considered inauspicious. (One Karan equals half a Tithi.).
- Purnima must occur during Pradosh Kaal. This means the full moon should prevail for three muhurats (approximately 72 minutes) after sunset.
The day following Holika Dahan, known as Chhoti Holi, is celebrated with joy and enthusiasm. People playfully apply colors to one another and exchange hugs, embodying the spirit of togetherness and fun.
Legend Behind Holika Dahan Celebration
According to the Hindu Puranas, Hiranyakashyap, the ruler of the demons, became extremely enraged upon discovering that his son Prahlad worshipped Lord Vishnu. Holding Prahlad in her lap, he gave his sister Holika instructions to sit in the fire. Holika’s protection from fire is a result of her blessing. However, the plan didn’t work out. Prahlad, a devotee of Vishnu, was unharmed by the fire, but Holika was reduced to ashes. The custom of performing Holika Dahan, or blazing the bonfire in remembrance of Holika, is part of the canon of this event. The Holi festival conveys the idea that this is how God remains accessible to His followers.
ASTRO GIVA 