Happy Holi 2024: Holi, renowned as the Festival of Colours, holds a special place in Hindu traditions, celebrated with unmatched zeal and excitement across India. This lively occasion also referred to as ‘Dol jatra’ or ‘Basanta Utsav’ in certain regions, marks the onset of spring and the farewell to winter. As the full moon of the Hindu month of Phalguna approaches, communities anticipate coming together, setting aside differences to embrace life’s brighter moments. As Holi approaches in 2024, a common question arises: will it be observed on March 24 or March 25 this year?
Is Holi on March 24th or March 25th?
According to the Hindu calendar, Holi aligns with the full moon day of the Falgun month. This year, the Festival of Colors falls on Monday, March 25th, 2024, with the preceding day, Sunday, March 24th, marking Holika Dahan or Choti Holi. Notably, the auspicious timings for these events are as follows:
Purnima Tithi Begins: 09:54 AM on March 24, 2024
Purnima Tithi Ends: 12:29 PM on March 25, 2024
Historical Roots of Holi:
The vibrancy of Holi finds its origins in Hindu mythology, particularly the story of Hiranyakashipu and Prahlad. Legend has it that Prahlad, an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu, was shielded from his father Hiranyakashyap’s wicked intentions. Holika, Hiranyakashyap’s sister, possessed immunity to fire and sought to eliminate Prahlad by sitting with him in a blazing inferno. However, the flames engulfed Holika instead, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, a narrative celebrated during Holika Dahan.
Regional Significance:
In locales like Mathura and Vrindavan, Holi transcends mythological boundaries to honor the divine love between Lord Krishna and Radha.
Significance of Holi:
Holi carries deep religious significance within Hinduism, standing as a cornerstone event. The festival spans two consecutive days, commencing with Choti Holi and concluding with Dulhendi or Badi Holi. Holika Dahan, a symbolic bonfire ignited on the eve of Choti Holi, heralds the commencement of festivities. Participants gather to pay homage to Holika, circumambulating the bonfire seven times before immersing themselves in the exuberant revelry of Dulhendi.
Cultural Celebrations:
During Dulhendi, individuals partake in a riot of colors, smearing each other’s faces with vibrant pigments as a symbol of shared joy. Amidst the exchange of sweets and delicacies, the air resonates with music and jubilation as families and friends unite to bask in the festive ambiance.