Holika Dahan, rooted in the Sanskrit term “Holika Dahanam,” is a significant Hindu festival where people light bonfires to mark the triumph over the demoness Holika. This celebration symbolizes the victory of light, goodness, and joy over darkness and evil. Learn more about the date, auspicious timing, significance, and the tale behind Chhoti Holi in this article.
Holika Dahan 2024
Holi, the festival known for its vibrant colors, joyous celebrations, and delicious food, is coming up on March 25th this year. The day before Holi, March 24th, is called Holika Dahan or Choti Holi. It’s an important day symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, with a story behind it. Holika Dahan holds deep cultural and religious meaning and serves as the kickoff for the Holi festivities, which begin the next day.
Holika Dahan 2024 Date
The night before Holi, bonfires are lit in North India, Nepal, and some parts of South India, following a long-standing tradition. It comes just before Holi, the colorful festival marking the arrival of spring. This ritual symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and is also known as Choti Holi. This year, it falls on March 24th.
Holika Dahan 2024 Shubh Muhurat
Holika Dahan, a significant ritual, is scheduled for March 24, 2024, which falls on a Sunday. As per the Drik Panchang, it’s advised to perform the Holika Dahan puja during Pradosh with Bhadra. The auspicious timing for this begins at 09:54 AM on March 24, 2024, and concludes by 12:29 PM on March 25, 2024. Check the table below for Choti Holi Date and Time:
| Choti Holi 2024 Shubh Muhurat | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Event | Date | Day | Timing |
| Holika Dahan | March 24, 2024 | Sunday | 23:13 to 00:27 |
| Bhadra Punchha | March 24, 2024 | Sunday | 18:33 to 19:53 |
| Bhadra Mukha | March 24, 2024 | Sunday | 19:53 to 22:06 |
| Purnima Tithi Begins | March 24, 2024 | Sunday | 09:54 AM |
| Purnima Tithi Ends | March 25, 2024 | Monday | 12:29 PM |
Holika Dahan 2024 Rituals
During Holika Dahan, a special fire is ignited to represent the triumph of good over evil. People join together around the fire to perform religious customs. This tradition recalls the tale of Prahlada, a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu, and the demoness Holika. According to Hindu lore, Prahlada’s steadfast belief in Lord Vishnu shielded him from Holika’s wicked plans, leading to her downfall.
People seek blessings through prayers, encircle the fire, chant religious songs, and toss offerings like roasted grains and coconut into the flames.
Holika Dahan Story
Prahlada, the son of King Hiranyakashipu, a mighty demon ruler who thought he was unbeatable. His father had a special blessing from Lord Brahma, making him nearly indestructible. Despite being from a demon family, Prahlada was a devout follower of Lord Vishnu. He didn’t worship his father and remained loyal to Lord Vishnu.
This angered Hiranyakashipu, who decided to kill his own son. He teamed up with his sister, Holika, who had a cloak that protected her from fire. They planned to burn Prahlada alive, with Holika sitting in the fire with him.
As the fire blazed, Prahlada prayed to Lord Vishnu for help, while Holika sat with him. Surprisingly, Holika was engulfed by the flames and died, but Prahlada remained unharmed.
The tale of Prahlada and Holika teaches us about the power of faith and righteousness in tough times. It’s a symbol of truth triumphing over evil and the divine protection of the righteous.
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| Holi in Braj 2024, कब है मथुरा-वृंदावन की होली? यहां देखें |
Holika Dahan 2024 FAQs
Q.1. What is Holika Dahan?
Ans. Holika Dahan is a Hindu festival where bonfires are lit to commemorate the triumph of good over evil, symbolizing the defeat of the demoness Holika.
Q.2. When is Choti Holi 2024?
Ans. Choti Holi 2024 falls on March 24th, the day before the colorful festival of Holi.
Q.3. What is the auspicious timing for Holika Dahan puja?
Ans. According to Drik Panchang, puja should be performed during Pradosh with Bhadra. The auspicious timing is from 09:54 AM to 12:29 PM on March 24, 2024.
Q.4. What are the rituals performed during Chotu Holi?
Ans. During Choti Holi, a special fire is ignited symbolizing the victory of good over evil. People gather around to perform religious customs, chant, and make offerings like roasted grains and coconut.
Q.5. What is the story behind Holika Dahan?
Ans. Holika Dahan recalls the tale of Prahlada, a devotee of Lord Vishnu, and his aunt Holika, who attempted to burn him alive. Prahlada’s unwavering faith saved him, while Holika perished, symbolizing righteousness prevailing over evil.
