Holashtak 2024: The term 'Holashtak' is derived from the combination of the words 'Holi' and 'Ashtak,' meaning the eight days before Holi. According to religious beliefs, during these eight days, any auspicious events such as weddings, ceremonies, mundan (tonsure ceremony), housewarming, etc., are considered inauspicious and are avoided. During Holashtak, all celestial bodies remain in an unfavourable position, leading to unfavourable outcomes for positive actions.
Holashtak 2024: Date
Holashtak 2024 will commence on March 17, 2024, on the eighth day of the bright fortnight of the month of Falgun, and it will conclude on March 24, 2024, with the celebration of Holika Dahan on that day and the playing of colorful Holi on March 25, 2024.
Holashtak 2024: History
According to the mythological story, eight days before Holika Dahan, which is considered Holashtak, Prahlad, the great devotee of Lord Vishnu, was subjected to severe torment by his father, Hiranyakashipu, to distance him from his devotion to Lord Vishnu. Hiranyakashipu subjected Prahlad to various tortures for seven days. On the eighth day, Hiranyakashipu's sister Holika tried to burn Prahlad by sitting him on her lap, but her attempt failed, and she was defeated.
Holashtak 2024: Significance
During the days of Holashtak, there is an increase in negative energy in the atmosphere, making it unfavourable for positive endeavours. As per Hindu traditions, on the eighth day, the moon; on the ninth, the sun; Saturn, Venus and Mercury on the tenth and eleventh and twelfth day; on thirteenth day, Mars, and lastly, Rahu, on the full moon day- all remain in an unfavourable position.
Holika Dahan: Date And Time
According to Drik Panchang, this year, Holika Dahan will be celebrated on March 24, while Holi will be celebrated the very next day, March 25. Here is all you need to know about the timings and shubh muhurat:
According to Hindu scriptures Holika Dahan, which is also known as Holika Deepak or Chhoti Holi, should be done during Pradosh Kaal (which starts after sunset) while Purnimasi Tithi is prevailing. Bhadra prevails during first half of Purnimasi Tithi and all good work should be avoided when Bhadra prevails.
- Bhadra Punchha - 06:33 PM to 07:53 PM
- Bhadra Mukha - 07:53 PM to 10:06 PM
- Holika Dahan during Pradosh with Bhadra
- Purnima Tithi Begins - 09:54 AM on Mar 24, 2024
- Purnima Tithi Ends - 12:29 PM on Mar 25, 2024
Holi Celebrations Under The Shadow Of Lunar Eclipse:
As per the Vedic Panchang, the full moon day of the Shukla Paksha of the Falgun month will begin as per thr following timings:
Hence, Holi will be celebrated under the shadow of the lunar eclipse on March 25.