Holika Dahan 2025 Date and Time: The festival of Holika Dahan, also known as Chhoti Holi, will be celebrated on Thursday, March 13, 2025. This Hindu festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, marking the legendary burning of Holika, the demoness who tried to harm Prahlad, a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu.
What is the time of Holika Dahan 2025?
According to the Hindu calendar, Holika Dahan will take place on the night of March 13, with the auspicious Muhurta from 11:26 PM to 12:31 AM (March 14). Since Holi is observed on the following day, Rangwali Holi will be celebrated on Friday, March 14, 2025.
Key Holika Dahan Timings:
Holika Dahan Muhurta: 11:26 PM – 12:31 AM (March 14)
Bhadra Punchha: 06:57 PM – 08:14 PM
Bhadra Mukha: 08:14 PM – 10:22 PM
Purnima Tithi Begins: 10:35 AM (March 13)
Purnima Tithi Ends: 12:23 PM (March 14)
Why is Muhurta Important for Holika Dahan?
Holika Dahan is performed after sunset when the full moon (Purnima) Tithi is in effect. However, Bhadra Kaal, an inauspicious period, must be carefully avoided. Performing Holika Dahan during Bhadra Mukha (the front part of Bhadra) is believed to bring misfortune.
How is the Best Muhurta Selected?
During Pradosh Kaal: If the full moon Tithi and Pradosh Kaal coincide, it is considered the most auspicious time.
After Bhadra Ends: If Bhadra extends into the evening but ends before midnight, Holika Dahan should be performed only after it concludes.
Bhadra Punchha Consideration: If Bhadra continues past midnight, the ritual can be performed during Bhadra Punchha (the tail-end of Bhadra), which is considered less inauspicious.
Avoiding Bhadra Mukha: Performing the ritual during Bhadra Mukha is strictly prohibited, as it is believed to invite negative consequences for individuals and society.
The Spiritual Significance of Holika Dahan
Holika Dahan is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legend, King Hiranyakashipu wanted his son Prahlad to worship him instead of Lord Vishnu. Enraged by Prahlad’s devotion, he conspired with his sister Holika, who had a divine boon protecting her from fire. She tricked Prahlad into sitting on a pyre with her, expecting him to perish. However, due to divine intervention, Holika burned while Prahlad remained unharmed, symbolizing the ultimate victory of faith and goodness over arrogance and evil.
Holika Dahan Rituals and Celebrations
Lighting of the Bonfire – Communities gather to light bonfires, representing the burning of evil forces.
Offering of Grains and Coconut – Devotees offer roasted grains, coconut, and jaggery, praying for prosperity and happiness.
Parikrama (Circling the Fire) – Many people walk around the fire, seeking blessings for good health and protection.
Holi Preparations Begin – After Holika Dahan, the festival of colors, Rangwali Holi, is celebrated the next day with gulal, sweets, and festivities.
Holika Dahan: Ensuring an Auspicious Celebration
As Holika Dahan must be performed at the right time, astrologers and priests carefully calculate Bhadra, Pradosh Kaal, and midnight timings to determine the most auspicious Muhurta. Following these timings ensures peace, prosperity, and protection from negative energies.
With Holika Dahan 2025 approaching, devotees are encouraged to follow traditions, offer prayers, and celebrate the triumph of righteousness with joy and devotion.
