Holi Date 2024: In Hinduism, Holi holds special significance. This festival is celebrated every year on the full moon day of the Phalguna month. The day before Holi is known as Holika Dahan or Choti Holi. On this day, after sunset, Holika is worshipped, and a bonfire is lit symbolising the victory of good over evil. The next day, people play Holi with colored powders and water. In the year 2024, the festival of Holi will be observed on March 25, Monday.
Auspicious Timing for Holi 2024:
- Full Moon begins: March 24, 2024, at 09:54 AM
- Full Moon ends: March 25, 2024, at 12:29 PM
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Holi Celebrations in Different Regions:
The festival of Holi is celebrated in different regions of India in unique ways. In the Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh, the fifth day of Holi, known as Rang Panchami, is celebrated with even more enthusiasm than the main Holi. The Braj region observes Holi with grand festivities, and Lathmar Holi in Barsana is particularly famous. In Mathura and Vrindavan, Holi festivities last for 15 days. In Maharashtra, dry colors are used to play Holi on Rang Panchami.
Mythological Stories Associated with Holi:
Several mythological stories related to Holi are mentioned in the Puranas. Holika Dahan is celebrated to symbolize the victory of good over evil. According to one legend, Prahlad, the son of the demon king Hiranyakashipu, was a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu, which displeased his father. Hiranyakashipu sought the help of his sister Holika, who had a boon that fire could not harm her. Holika took Prahlad into her lap and entered the fire with the intention of killing him. However, due to Prahlad's devotion, Holika was consumed by the fire while Prahlad remained unharmed. Holi is also celebrated in memory of the divine love of Radha and Krishna.