Holi celebrations have already begun with the festival just around the corner. People are ecstatic as they prepare to celebrate the auspicious festival of colours with their friends and family. Holika Dahan, a ritual that symbolises the triumph of good over evil, is performed prior to Holi. Devotees light the Holika bonfire, which represents the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and happiness over grief, the night before Holi to kick off the festival of colours. Holika Dahan or Choti Holi, also known as Holika Deepak, is celebrated every year on the day before Holi. On March 7, Choti Holi and Holika Dahan will be observed (Tuesday). According to Hindu beliefs, it should be performed during Pradosh Kaal (which begins after sunset) while Purnimasi Tithi is in effect.
The Importance of Holika Dahan 2023
In Hindu mythology, Hiranyakashipu, a demon king, once opposed his son Prahlad’s devotion to Lord Vishnu. As a result, Hiranyakashipu instructed his sister Holika to murder Prahlad. When Holika attempted to kill Prahlad by throwing him into a bonfire, she was burned by the flames, but Lord Vishnu saved and protected Prahlada.
Rituals for Holika Dahan 2023
The Holika Dahan ritual is performed the night before Holi. On Holika Dahan, people gather in public places and light bonfires to symbolise the destruction of evil. They also worship Lord Vishnu and pray to him for his blessings.
Holika is constructed of wood, cow dung cakes, and other flammable materials. During this festival, people apply holi tilaks to each other’s foreheads. In addition to religious significance, Holika Dahan has cultural significance.
People share sweets and snacks while playing with coloured powders and water. Essentially, Holika Dahan is a significant Hindu event that symbolises the triumph of good over evil. This is an occasion for people to gather, pray, and celebrate with their loved ones.
In the Indian subcontinent, the Holi festival celebrates the spirit of inclusiveness and humanity and heralds the arrival of spring after winter. The festival commemorates the triumph of good over evil and is held over two days: Holika Dahan and Holi Milan.
