According to the Hindu Lunar calendar, Holika Dahan concurs with the full moon day in the month of Phalguna, a day which is also known as Phalguna Purnima. This year, Holi with colours (rang wali Holi) will be celebrated on March 2 and Holi Dahan puja will be performed on March 1.
Holika Dahan is a ritual performed on the eve of Holi. Before playing rang wali Holi, people offer their prayers to the Almighty.
People in the neighbourhood collectively organise a bonfire (referred to as the Holika Dahan) to mark the victory of good over the evil. The Dahan is usually performed during the Pradosh Kaal (which starts post sunset) while Purnimasi Tithi prevails.
The pristine devotion of a young boy named Prahalada for Lord Vishnu succeeds in annihilating the powers of his aunt Holika who attempts to kill him on her brother Hiranyakashyapu’s behest, a ruthless king of wanted to rule the world by force.
The Holika Dahan Puja is dedicated to the Narasimha avatar of Lord Vishnu. In this avatar, the Lord appears as half-man and half-lion. He took this unusual form to end all atrocities committed by the greedy Hiranyakashyapu.
People offer water, turmeric, coconut to the bonfire and seek blessings for a joyous life. (The offerings may vary from region to region). Click here to know the Pujan vidhi and Narasimha Maha Mantra
According to drikpanchang.com, Purnima Tithi begins at 08:57 AM on March 1 and extends up to 06:21 AM on March 2.
The Holika Dahan Muhurta starts at 18:16 PM to 20:47 PM on March 1.
