Holika dahan 2026 date and time: Is it on March 2 or 3? Check correct muhurat and bhadra timings according to hindu Panchang

Holika dahan 2026 date and time: Is it on March 2 or 3? Check correct muhurat and bhadra timings according to hindu Panchang (image: canva)

• Holika Dahan 2026 falls on March 2, per Drik Panchang.
• Auspicious time is 6:44 PM to 9:11 PM on March 2.
• Rangwali Holi will be celebrated on March 4, 2026.

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As Holi 2026 approaches, confusion over the correct Holika Dahan 2026 date has left many devotees searching for clarity. While some calendars mention March 3, others suggest March 2. According to calculations published by Drik Panchang, Holika Dahan will be observed on Monday, March 2, 2026, during the auspicious Pradosh Kaal in the evening.

Why is there confusion over Holika Dahan 2026?

The uncertainty arises because the Purnima Tithi begins on the evening of March 2 and continues until the evening of March 3. Since Holika Dahan must be performed during Pradosh Kaal on Purnima, while strictly avoiding Bhadra, the final date depends on precise lunar calculations.

Different Panchangs interpret the overlap of Purnima and Bhadra slightly differently. Some prioritise the continuation of Purnima on March 3. However, based on traditional rules and astronomical evaluation, Drik Panchang identifies March 2 evening as the most suitable time.

Holika Dahan 2026: Correct date and shubh muhurat

According to Drik Panchang:

This time falls within Pradosh Kaal, the sacred period after sunset considered highly auspicious for lighting the Holika bonfire.

ALSO READ | Holi 2026 exact date: Is it March 3 or 4? check Lunar Eclipse effect on Holika Dahan

When is Rangwali Holi 2026?

Rangwali Holi (Dhulandi): Wednesday, March 4, 2026

Traditionally, Rangwali Holi is celebrated the day after Holika Dahan. Devotees will play with colours, gulal and festive sweets on March 4.

Pradosh Kaal and Bhadra in Holika Dahan: Importance

In Hindu tradition, Holika Dahan must take place:

• During Pradosh Kaal
• On Purnima Tithi
• After ensuring Bhadra is not prevailing

If Bhadra is active during Pradosh, the ritual is postponed. In 2026, March 2 evening satisfies these traditional conditions according to Drik Panchang’s detailed assessment.

What should devotees follow?

While many families follow their regional Panchang or long-standing customs, those relying on Drik Panchang timings should prepare for Holika Dahan on March 2, 2026.As the sacred fire is lit, it symbolises the victory of devotion over negativity and righteousness over arrogance. May Holi 2026 bring harmony, prosperity and renewed spiritual strength to every household.