Holika Dahan
Holika Dahan, also known as Chhoti Holi, is a Hindu festival that marks the victory of good over evil. It is celebrated on the night before the festival of Holi, which is usually in the month of March.
During Holika Dahan, people light bonfires to symbolize the burning of the demon Holika, who was defeated by the god Vishnu. The bonfire is also a way to welcome the spring season and to ward off evil spirits.
People gather around the bonfire, sing and dance around it, and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Some people also throw coconuts and other offerings into the fire.
After the bonfire, people often smear each other with colored powder and water, marking the beginning of the Holi festival. The festival is a time for forgiveness, friendship, and unity, as people of all ages and backgrounds come together to celebrate.
Holika Kill
According to Hindu mythology, the Holika demon was the younger sister of King Hiranyakashipu. Hiranyakashipu received a boon from Lord Brahma that he could not be killed by any human or animal, neither during the day nor at night, neither inside nor outside, nor on the ground nor on the ground nor No one can kill him in these places in the sky. He became arrogant and started demanding that people worship him instead of gods.
But, his son Prahlad was a devotee of Lord Vishnu and refused to worship his father. This angered Hiranyakashipu, and ordered her sister Holika, who had a boon who saved her from the fire, to sit on a pyre with Prahlada on her lap. Holika was about to burn Prahlada, while he died during being unwanted.
But when the pyre was burnt, a strong wind was blown up and Shawl Holika flew and covered Prahlada, saved her from flames. As a result, Holika was burnt, while Prahlada was untoward. This phenomenon is celebrated as Holika Dahan, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil, and the power of devotion and faith.
What is the Muhurta for Holika Dahan?
The Muhurta or auspicious timing for Holika Dahan may vary from region to region and can depend on various factors such as the geographical location, time zone, and regional customs.
In general, the Muhurta for Holika Dahan is determined based on the Panchang or Hindu calendar, taking into account the position of the stars and planets. It is believed that performing the Holika Dahan ritual during the right Muhurta can bring good luck and prosperity.
It’s advisable to consult with a local priest or a Hindu calendar for the exact auspicious timing of Holika Dahan for a particular year and location. However, Holika Dahan generally takes place on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Phalguna, which usually falls in February or March.
Holika Dahan on Tuesday, March 7, 2023
Holika Dahan Muhurta – 06:20 PM to 08:50 PM
Duration – 02 Hours 30 Mins
Holika Dahan puja samgri
Holika Dahan puja samagri or items needed for the Holika Dahan ritual may vary slightly based on the region and tradition. However, the following are some common items that are used during the Holika Dahan puja :
Wood, twigs, and dried leaves to build the bonfire.
Ghee, sesame oil, or other offerings to be poured into the fire.
Turmeric powder, sandalwood powder, or other fragrant substances to be sprinkled on the fire.
Flowers, fruits, and sweets as offerings to the gods.
Coconut, camphor, and incense sticks for performing the aarti.
Haldi, kumkum, and other puja items for doing the puja rituals.
Water and a small pot or kalash for performing the puja.
A picture or idol of Lord Vishnu or any other deity that is worshipped during the Holika Dahan ritual.
A puja thali to hold all the items needed for the puja.
Clothes and sweets for distributing to friends and family after the puja.
It’s advisable to consult with a local priest or a trusted source for the specific items needed for the Holika Dahan puja in a particular region or tradition.
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Holika Dahan puja vidhi
Here is a general Holika Dahan puja vidhi (procedure):
Clean the area where the bonfire will be lit and decorate it with flowers and rangoli.
Place the wood, twigs, and dried leaves to build the bonfire in the center of the decorated area.
Light the fire using ghee, sesame oil, or other offerings.
Offer flowers, fruits, and sweets to the gods while chanting mantras and hymns.
Sprinkle turmeric powder, sandalwood powder, or other fragrant substances on the fire.
Offer coconut, camphor, and incense sticks while performing the aarti.
Pour water in the small pot or kalash and place it near the bonfire.
Perform the puja rituals using haldi, kumkum, and other puja items.
Offer prayers to Lord Vishnu or any other deity that is worshipped during the Holika Dahan ritual.
Perform the circumambulation (parikrama) around the bonfire and seek blessings from the gods.
Once the bonfire dies down, collect the ashes and smear it on your forehead.
Distribute clothes and sweets to friends and family.
It’s important to follow the specific puja vidhi recommended by the local priest or tradition. Additionally, one should exercise caution while performing the Holika Dahan ritual as it involves lighting a bonfire. One should ensure that the area is safe and that there is no danger to oneself or others.
