Holika Dahan 2024: Unveiling The Date, Shubh Muhurat, Significance, And Rituals of This Festival

Holika Dahan, also known as Choti Holi, marks the eve of the festival of colours, Holi, celebrated with immense zeal and enthusiasm across India. The Holi celebration begins with the Purnima night (full moon) of the Hindu month Phalguna. In 2024, Holika Dahan falls on March 24, 2024. In this article, we will tell you about the significance, rituals, and shubh muhurat details associated with Holika Dahan 2024 from our Astro expert Pandit Arvind Tripathi.

Significance of Holika Dahan

Holika Dahan holds immense significance in Hindu mythology and tradition. It commemorates the victory of good over evil and the triumph of devotion and righteousness. On the auspicious occasion of Holika Dahan, devotees pay homage to the Narasimha incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This is because, on this day, Lord Vishnu saved the life of his devotee.

The legend associated with Holika Dahan narrates the tale of Prahlad, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, and his aunt Holika, who was immune to fire. Holika, in her arrogance, attempted to kill Prahlad by sitting with him in a pyre, but due to divine intervention, Prahlad emerged unscathed while Holika perished in the flames. Thus, Holika Dahan symbolises the destruction of evil forces and the protection of the virtuous.

If someone sincerely worships Lord Vishnu, it is believed that he always protects them. It is a testament to the protective embrace of Lord Vishnu that those who worship him with sincerity are believed to be under his perpetual guardianship, ensuring their well-being and protection.

Shubh Muhurat for Holika Dahan 2024

This year, Choti Holi, also known as Holika Dahan, is scheduled for March 24, 2024. Holika Dahan, the ritual of lighting bonfires, will commence at 11:13 pm on March 24, 2024, and conclude at 12:27 am on March 25, 2024. The auspicious timing for Holika Dahan lasts for 1 hour and 14 minutes. Following this, Holi, the festival of colours, will be celebrated on March 25, 2024.

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Rituals of Holika Dahan

The rituals of Holika Dahan are performed with great zeal and adherence to tradition. Here are the customary practices observed during this auspicious occasion:

1. Days before the festival, people gather wood, twigs, dried leaves, and other combustible materials to build the bonfire known as 'Holika.' Additionally, an effigy of Holika is made using straw and wood, which is placed atop the bonfire.

2. On the evening of Holika Dahan, families and communities come together to perform puja rituals. Offerings of coconut, fruits, sweets, and grains are made to the sacred fire, symbolising the homage to Agni, the god of fire.

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3. As per the auspicious muhurat, the bonfire is lit amidst the chanting of mantras and devotional songs. The effigy of Holika is then set ablaze, signifying the victory of righteousness over evil.

4. Circumambulation: After the bonfire is lit, people perform parikrama (circumambulation) around the fire, seeking blessings.

As we celebrate Holika Dahan in 2024, let us bring together the spirit of devotion, harmony, and joy.

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