Holika Dahan 2022: Today is the first day of the popular Hindu festival Holi, also known as Chhoti Holi or Holika Dahan. This traditional ritual involves the burning of an effigy of a mythical demoness named Holika. People lit bonfire on Holika Dahan and a special Puja is performed to mark the occasion and ward off evil spirits.
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Significance of Choti Holi
Traditionally on the day of Choti Holi people rejoice the killing of demoness Holika by Vishnu in order to save Prahlad, who was a devotee of Lord Vishnu. The night before Holi, pyres are burnt in northern India, Nepal and parts of South India in keeping with this tradition. The fire burnt on the eve of Holi (Holika Dahan) symbolizes the burning of Holika.
It is celebrated on a full moon night in the Phalguna month on the Pratipada Tithi of Krishna Paksha.
Holika Dahan Muhurta
According to Drik Panchang, the Holika Dahan muhurta is from 9:06 pm to 10:16 pm. The duration of Holika dahan is one hour 10 minutes. Based on religious belief, the time of worship of Holika is considered to be of Pradosh Kaal. The time of Pradosh Kaal will start at 6:40 pm.
Bhadra Punchha: 9:06 pm to 10:16 pm
Bhadra Mukha: 10:16 pm on March 17 to 12:10 am on March 18
Holika Dahan sunset: 6:32 pm on March 17 — Pradosh (the period after sunset) begins
Purnima Tithi: 1:29 pm on March 17 to 12:47 pm on March 18
There is a belief that Holika should be worshipped for family happiness, peace, and prevention of disease and for the longevity of the child. The bonfire is a reminder of the victory of good over evil. The second day is known as Dhuleti or Holi, which is marked by playing with colours, people exchanging sweets and mingling with loved ones.