Holi (2024) is a longstanding, revered Hindu tradition. In India and Nepal, it is a national holiday, whereas other countries observe it regionally. This widely observed festival commemorates Lord Radha Krishna’s exquisite and enduring love. The day also commemorates Lord Vishnu’s victory against Hiranyakashipu in his capacity as Narasimha Narayana, which represents the triumph of goodness over evil.
The celebration has several objectives, but it predominantly celebrates the onset of spring. It was described as a feast in 17th-century literature that celebrated farming and remembered fertile land and abundant spring harvests. According to Hinduism, now is the time to appreciate the vivid colors of spring and say goodbye to winter. This year’s Festival of Color celebration itinerary is as follows:
When Do We Celebrate Holi?
Holika Dahan (Holi) 2024. Date: March 24.
Rangwali Holi 2024 Date: March 25.
Holika Dahan 2024 Shubh Muhurat
The full moon on March 24 will begin at 9:53 a.m. and last until 12:30 p.m. on March 25. Therefore, according to the sunrise date, the full moon date will be considered March 24.
Holika Dahan 2024 will be on March 24. On this day, from 9:56 a.m. to 11:14 p.m., Bhadra (Holi Bhadra Timing) will remain. Due to this, Holika Dahan Muhurat 2024 will be considered auspicious after Bhadra at night from 11:14 p.m. to 12:14 a.m.
Also Read: Lord Krishna’s birth and his Leela
Procedure for Holika Dahan Puja 2024:
- First, take a bath.
- After bathing, sit facing north or east at the place of worship for Holika Dahan.
- Make idols of Holika and Prahlada from cow dung for worship.
- Also, keep items for worship such as vermillion, flowers, flower garland, raw thread, jaggery, whole turmeric, moong (green gram), sweets, colored powder, coconut, 5 to 7 types of grains, and water in a pot.
- Then, worship with all these worship materials following the complete procedure. Offer sweets and fruits.
- Along with worshiping Holika, they also worshipped Lord Narasimha according to the procedure and circumambulated around Holika seven times.
Holika on Auspicious Conjunctions
On the day of Holika Dahan, Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga, Ravi Yoga, Gand Yoga, and Budhaditya Yoga conjoin. These auspicious yogas signal prosperity and progress in the country.
Also Read: What happened after Lord Krishna death?
What will be the effect?
According to the Puranas, Bhadra is considered to be the daughter of Surya and the sister of Shani Dev. Bhadra is deemed to be angry. For this reason, the beginning of any work is considered prohibited at the time of Bhadra. When Bhadra is present in Cancer, Leo, Aquarius, and Pisces signs and the transit of the moon, Bhadra is considered to be present in the earthly realm. The next day, March 25, due to the formation of Vriddhi Yoga, Budhaditya Yoga, Vashi Yoga, and Sunpha Yoga, playing with colors and playing Dhulandi throughout the day is extremely encouraging.
Holi 2024: A Celebration Steeped in Myth and Joy
Holi, the energetic festival of colors, is a cultural cornerstone in India. But beyond the dazzling display of colored powder lies a rich tapestry of myths and tales that add depth and meaning to the celebration. Here’s a glimpse into the stories that weave the magic of Holi:
The Playful Colors of Love
One popular story revolves around Radha and Krishna, two iconic figures in Hinduism. Krishna, known for his playful nature, had dark blue skin. Worried that Radha, with her fair complexion, wouldn’t love him, he confided in his mother. In a heartwarming twist, his mother suggested he playfully smear colors on Radha’s face. This act of love and acceptance is believed to be the origin of the playful throwing of colors during Holi. It’s a reminder that love transcends appearances and brings people together in a joyful embrace.
Triumph of Good Over Evil with Fire
Another legend delves into the battle between good and evil. King Hiranyakashipu, consumed by arrogance, believed himself invincible. However, his son, Prahlada, remained devoted to the benevolent god Vishnu. Enraged by Prahlada’s defiance, Hiranyakashipu plotted his son’s demise. The story goes that Prahlada was tricked into sitting on a pyre with his aunt Holika, who possessed a cloak that made her immune to fire. However, the cloak flew off Holika during the blaze, engulfing her instead, while Prahlada remained unharmed. This event is commemorated by lighting a bonfire called Holika Dahan before the main Holi celebrations. It symbolizes the victory of good (Prahlada) over evil (Hiranyakashipu) and the cleansing power of fire.
A Spark of Passion and Renewal
A lesser-known story connects Holi to the god of love, Kamadeva. According to the myth, Kamadeva attempted to awaken the meditating god Shiva with his love arrows. However, Shiva, startled from his deep meditation, opened his third eye, a powerful source of fire, and accidentally burned Kamadeva to ashes. Filled with grief, Kamadeva’s wife, Rati, embarked on a period of intense prayer and meditation. Touched by her devotion, Shiva revived Kamadeva after 40 days. This 40-day period might hold the key to why Holi falls when it does on the calendar, signifying a time of renewal and the return of love’s vibrant energy.
How Do We Celebrate Holi 2024?
Holi unfolds over two exciting days.
- Day 1: Holika Dahan (Burning of Holika): People light a bonfire to symbolize burning away negativity and evil. Think of it like a symbolic cleansing before the main event, just like how you clean your room before having a big party!
- Day 2: Dhulandi (Playing with Colors): This is a vibrant day filled with colors! People throw colored powder and water at each other, creating a joyful, colorful mess. It’s like the ultimate schoolyard color war, but on a much bigger scale, where everyone joins in the fun and friendship!
Celebrating Holi 2024: A Time for Fun and Unity
So, this Holi, join the vibrant celebration! It’s a time to welcome spring, celebrate love in all its forms, strengthen bonds with your loved ones, and experience the joy of community. Get ready to embrace a little friendly mess, soak in the vibrant colors, and experience the magic of Holi!
Holi 2024 – A Festival for All
Holi transcends religious and social boundaries. Over time, it evolved into a celebration for everyone, regardless of caste or faith. It’s a time to mend broken relationships, forget past grudges, and come together in a spirit of joy and unity. The vibrant colors symbolize not just the beauty of spring but also the richness of diversity and the joy of human connection. So, the next time you participate in the playful chaos of Holi, remember the stories behind it – a celebration of love, the triumph of good, and the enduring spirit of human connection.
