When Is Holika Dahan 2026: March 2 or March 3? Know the Correct Date, Muhurat and Other Details
Holika Dahan 2026 date has been a topic of curiosity, with many wondering whether the festival will be observed on March 2 or March 3. Holika Dahan, also known as Chhoti Holi, marks the ceremonial bonfire that takes place a day before the vibrant festival of Holi. In 2026, Holika Dahan will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 3, according to the Hindu calendar.
This sacred ritual symbolises the triumph of righteousness over evil and sets the spiritual tone for the colourful celebrations that follow.
Holika Dahan 2026 Date and Tithi Details
Holika Dahan is observed on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Phalguna. In 2026, the important timings are as follows:
Purnima Tithi Timings
Since the full moon prevails on the evening of March 3, the bonfire ritual will be performed on this day.
Holika Dahan 2026 Muhurat and Bhadra Timings
Performing Holika Dahan during the auspicious muhurat is considered highly beneficial. Devotees believe that lighting the sacred fire at the right time removes negativity and brings prosperity.
However, the period known as Bhadra is generally avoided for the ritual.
Bhadra Timings (New Delhi)
Families usually wait until Bhadra ends before lighting the bonfire to ensure auspicious results.
Why Is Holika Dahan Celebrated?
Holika Dahan is widely celebrated across India and Nepal. The festival represents:
Communities gather around the bonfire, offer prayers, and perform rituals believed to:
This sacred ritual symbolises the triumph of righteousness over evil and sets the spiritual tone for the colourful celebrations that follow.
Holika Dahan 2026 Date and Tithi Details
Holika Dahan is observed on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Phalguna. In 2026, the important timings are as follows:
Purnima Tithi Timings
- Purnima begins: 5:55 PM on March 2, 2026
- Purnima ends: 5:07 PM on March 3, 2026
Since the full moon prevails on the evening of March 3, the bonfire ritual will be performed on this day.
Holika Dahan 2026 Muhurat and Bhadra Timings
Performing Holika Dahan during the auspicious muhurat is considered highly beneficial. Devotees believe that lighting the sacred fire at the right time removes negativity and brings prosperity.
However, the period known as Bhadra is generally avoided for the ritual.
Bhadra Timings (New Delhi)
- Bhadra Punchha: 1:25 AM to 2:35 AM, March 3
- Bhadra Mukha: 2:35 AM to 4:30 AM, March 3
Families usually wait until Bhadra ends before lighting the bonfire to ensure auspicious results.
Why Is Holika Dahan Celebrated?
Holika Dahan is widely celebrated across India and Nepal. The festival represents:
- Victory of good over evil
- Power of devotion and faith
- Destruction of arrogance and negativity
Communities gather around the bonfire, offer prayers, and perform rituals believed to:
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