Holi is one of the most joyful and colorful festivals celebrated in India and many parts of the world. Known as the “Festival of Colors,” Holi brings people together in a spirit of happiness, love, and unity. It marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. Every year, people eagerly wait for this vibrant festival to celebrate with family and friends.

In 2026, Holi will be celebrated on: Holi (Rangwali Holi): Wednesday, March 4, 2026 Holika Dahan: Tuesday, March 2, 2026

Purnima Tithi Timing

Holi is celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Phalguna. The timing of the Purnima Tithi in 2026 is: Purnima Tithi Begins: 05:55 PM on March 2, 2026 Purnima Tithi Ends: 05:07 PM on March 3, 2026 Holika Dahan is performed during the Purnima Tithi, and Rangwali Holi (the festival of colors) is celebrated the next day.

Holika Dahan is celebrated one day before the main Holi festival. It involves lighting a bonfire in the evening. This ritual symbolizes the burning away of evil and negativity. People gather wood and other materials to build a bonfire. In the evening, after performing puja (prayers), the bonfire is lit. Devotees walk around the fire and pray for happiness, prosperity, and protection from evil forces. Holika Dahan is based on an important mythological story from Hindu scriptures.

The story of Holi is connected with King Hiranyakashipu and his son Prahlad. According to Hindu mythology, Hiranyakashipu was a powerful demon king who wanted everyone to worship him as God. However, his son Prahlad was a devotee of Lord Vishnu and refused to worship his father. Angered by this, Hiranyakashipu tried many ways to kill Prahlad, but he failed every time. Finally, he asked his sister Holika, who had a special power that made her immune to fire, to sit in a fire with Prahlad on her lap. Holika believed she would not burn, but because Prahlad had true devotion and faith, he was protected by divine power. Holika burned in the fire, while Prahlad remained safe. This event symbolizes the victory of good over evil, and Holika Dahan marks this important moment.

Holi is celebrated for several important reasons:

1. Victory of Good Over Evil

The burning of Holika represents the destruction of evil forces. It reminds people that truth and devotion always win in the end.

2. Arrival of Spring

Holi marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. The weather becomes pleasant, flowers bloom, and the atmosphere feels fresh and joyful.

3. Celebration of Love and Unity

Holi is a festival where people forget old misunderstandings and come together. Friends and family apply colors to each other and share sweets. It strengthens relationships and spreads happiness.

4. Connection with Lord Krishna

In many parts of India, especially in Mathura and Vrindavan, Holi is associated with Lord Krishna. It is believed that Lord Krishna played Holi with colors with Radha and the gopis. This tradition continues today with great enthusiasm.

Holi celebrations are full of excitement and fun. Here’s how people usually celebrate:

1. Playing with Colors

On Rangwali Holi (March 4, 2026), people apply gulal (colored powder) on each other. They also use water guns (pichkaris) and water balloons filled with colored water.

2. Singing and Dancing

Music is an important part of Holi. People dance to festive songs and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

3. Special Food

Traditional sweets like gujiya, malpua, and laddoos are prepared. Thandai, a special festive drink, is also served.

4. Visiting Friends and Family

People visit each other’s homes, apply colors, exchange greetings, and enjoy festive meals together.

In Hindu culture, muhurat means an auspicious time to perform rituals. Holika Dahan should be done during the correct muhurat, usually after sunset and during the Purnima Tithi. For Holi 2026:

• Holika Dahan will be observed on Tuesday, March 3, 2026
• Purnima Tithi ends at 05:07 PM on March 3, 2026 It is important that Holika Dahan is performed when Purnima Tithi is prevailing. Devotees consult the local Panchang (Hindu calendar) to confirm the exact evening muhurat based on their location.

Holi is not just about colors and fun; it has deep spiritual meaning.

1. Removing Negativity

The bonfire of Holika Dahan symbolizes burning negative thoughts, anger, jealousy, and ego.

2. Inner Cleansing

Playing with colors represents joy and the removal of differences among people.

3. Faith and Devotion

The story of Prahlad teaches the importance of faith and trust in God.

In recent years, people are becoming more aware of environmental safety during Holi.

• Use natural and herbal colors.
• Avoid wasting water.
• Protect animals from colors.
• Celebrate safely and responsibly. Eco-friendly Holi ensures that the festival remains joyful without harming nature.

• Holi (Rangwali Holi): Wednesday, March 4, 2026
• Holika Dahan: Tuesday, March 2, 2026
• Purnima Tithi Begins: 05:55 PM on March 2, 2026
• Purnima Tithi Ends: 05:07 PM on March 3, 2026

Holi 2026 will be celebrated on Wednesday, March 4, with Holika Dahan on Tuesday, March 3. It is a festival filled with joy, devotion, and cultural importance. From the story of Prahlad and Holika to the colorful celebrations inspired by Lord Krishna, Holi carries deep meaning. This beautiful festival reminds us that goodness always wins over evil, love conquers hatred, and unity is stronger than division. As you prepare to celebrate Holi 2026, spread happiness, use safe colors, and enjoy the spirit of togetherness. May this Holi bring bright colors, peace, and prosperity into your life!