Holika Dahan, also known as Chhoti Holi, is a Hindu festival that marks the symbolic victory of good over evil. Observed with the lighting of a bonfire, it commemorates the burning of the demoness Holika. The festival takes place a day before Holi, the festival of colors, which welcomes the arrival of spring.
According to legend, Holika was the sister of the tyrant king Hiranyakashipu. Blessed with a boon that made her immune to fire, she attempted to kill her nephew, Prahlada, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu. She placed him on her lap and sat in a blazing fire, expecting to emerge unharmed. However, her boon failed, and she was consumed by the flames, while Prahlada miraculously survived, signifying divine protection and the ultimate triumph of righteousness.
