Holika Dahan 2025: Muhurat and Puja Vidhi, Do’s and Don’ts

Holika Dahan, also known as Holika Deepak or Chhoti Holi, is a significant Hindu festival observed on the evening before Holi. According to Hindu scriptures, this ritual should be performed during the Pradosh Kaal (the period after sunset) while the Purnima Tithi (full moon day) is still in effect. This yeae it will be celebrated on Thursday, March 13, 2025. However, it is crucial to ensure that the ritual is conducted at an auspicious time, avoiding inauspicious periods such as Bhadra.

Holika Dahan Muhurat 2025

The Muhurat (auspicious timing) for Holika Dahan is determined based on specific rules:

• Pradosh Kaal Preference: The ideal time for Holika Dahan is during Pradosh Kaal when the Purnima Tithi is prevailing and Bhadra has ended.


• Bhadra Consideration: Bhadra occurs during the first half of Purnima Tithi. Since it is considered inauspicious for good activities, Holika Dahan should be avoided when Bhadra is in effect.


• Post-Bhadra Timing: If Bhadra continues during Pradosh Kaal but ends before midnight, then Holika Dahan should be performed immediately after Bhadra ends.


• Bhadra Punchha Exception: If Bhadra extends beyond midnight, Holika Dahan can only be performed within the Bhadra Punchha (the tail end of Bhadra). However, it must be ensured that Holika Dahan is not conducted during Bhadra Mukha (the beginning phase of Bhadra), as it is believed to bring misfortune for individuals, cities, and even the entire nation.


• No Pradosh or Bhadra Punchha Available: In rare cases where neither Pradosh Kaal nor Bhadra Punchha is available, the ritual should be performed after Pradosh.

Do’s and Don’ts for Holika Dahan 2025

Observing Holika Dahan with the right rituals and traditions is essential for bringing positivity and prosperity. Here are some important do’s and don’ts to follow:

Do’s for Holika Dahan

1. Check the Muhurat: Perform Holika Dahan at the correct time during Pradosh Kaal and avoid the inauspicious Bhadra period.


2. Use Sacred Materials: Gather dry wood, cow dung cakes, and pure ghee for the bonfire, which symbolizes purity and devotion.


3. Perform Puja with Devotion: Worship Lord Vishnu and Goddess Holika by offering coconut, flowers, jaggery, and grains.


4. Recite Holika Dahan Mantras: Chanting prayers and mantras while circling the fire removes negativity and invites good fortune.


5. Offer Mustard Seeds and Barley: These offerings help ward off evil energies and bring prosperity.


6. Take the Ash as Prasad: The sacred ash from the bonfire is believed to bring protection and positive energy when applied to the forehead.


7. Seek Blessings of Elders: Touching the feet of elders after the puja enhances the blessings received on this auspicious night.

Don’ts for Holika Dahan

1. Avoid Performing Holika Dahan in Bhadra Mukha: This is considered highly inauspicious and can bring bad luck.


2. Do Not Use Green or Wet Wood: Burning fresh wood is discouraged as it harms nature and affects the sanctity of the ritual.


3. Refrain from Arguing or Fighting: Holika Dahan is about burning negativity; any disputes on this day should be avoided.


4. Avoid Wearing Dark-Colored Clothes: It is considered inauspicious; prefer light or bright-colored attire for good fortune.


5. Do Not Step Over the Ashes Immediately: The ashes of Holika Dahan should be respected and used for protection, not trampled upon.


6. Avoid Using Synthetic Colors for Rangwali Holi: Play Holi with natural or organic colors to ensure environmental and personal safety.


7. Do Not Consume Alcohol or Meat: Maintaining purity in food and actions is recommended during this spiritual occasion.

Holika Dahan symbolizes the victory of good over evil. It is rooted in the legend of Prahlad and Holika, where Prahlad’s devotion to Lord Vishnu helped him overcome the evil intentions of his aunt, Holika. The ritual involves lighting a bonfire, signifying the burning away of negativity and ushering in prosperity and happiness.