
Holika Dahan, also known as Chhoti Holi, is an important Hindu festival that signifies the victory of good over evil. It is observed on the night before Holi and is believed to purify the environment by eliminating negativity and bad energies. This year, Holika Dahan falls on March 13, 2025, coinciding with Phalguna Purnima.
The Significance of Holika Dahan
Holika Dahan is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. It commemorates the legend of Prahlad and Holika, where the unwavering devotion of Prahlad (a devotee of Lord Vishnu) triumphed over his evil aunt, Holika. The bonfire symbolizes the burning away of evil, ego, and negativity, making way for prosperity and positivity in life.
Holika Dahan Rituals and Traditions
- Preparation of the Bonfire – People collect wood, dried leaves, and other flammable materials to create a large pyre.
- Sacred Fire Ceremony – As the evening approaches, communities gather around the bonfire and offer prayers, grains, coconut, and mustard seeds to the fire, seeking blessings for health, happiness, and protection from evil forces.
- Parikrama (Circumambulation) – Devotees walk around the bonfire three to seven times, chanting prayers and mantras, asking for divine blessings.
- Burning Away Negativity – The fire represents the destruction of negativity, jealousy, and evil intentions, ensuring a fresh start with positivity.
- Children’s Rituals – In many families, young children are carried around the bonfire to seek divine protection from negative energies.
Auspicious Time for Holika Dahan 2025
According to Hindu traditions, Holika Dahan should be performed during Pradosh Vyapini Purnima, ensuring that Bhadra’s influence does not affect the ritual.
- Phalguna Purnima Begins: March 13, 2025, at 10:35 AM
- Phalguna Purnima Ends: March 14, 2025, at 12:23 PM
- Most Auspicious Time for Holika Dahan: March 13, from 11:26 PM to 12:30 AM
Bhadra Timing on Holika Dahan 2025
Performing Holika Dahan during Bhadra is considered inauspicious, so one should carefully avoid this time.
- Bhadra Poonch: March 13, from 6:57 PM to 8:14 PM
- Bhadra Mukh: March 13, from 8:14 PM to 10:22 PM
- Best Time to Perform Holika Dahan: After 10:22 PM, once Bhadra ends.
Why Should Holika Dahan Not Be Performed During Bhadra?
Bhadra is the daughter of Surya Dev (Sun God) and sister of Shani Dev. She is known for her fierce nature, and performing any auspicious activity during Bhadra is believed to bring misfortune, obstacles, and negative consequences.
From an astrological perspective, when the Moon transits through Cancer, Leo, Aquarius, or Pisces, it leads to Bhadra Vishti Karana, meaning that Bhadra resides on Earth during that time. Therefore, any religious or auspicious ceremony should be strictly avoided during this phase.
Conclusion
Holika Dahan is not just a festival but a powerful spiritual ritual that marks the end of negativity and the beginning of a prosperous and joyful life. By following the right timings and traditions, one can ensure that the divine blessings bring happiness, success, and peace into their lives.