Holi 2024 Date: Is Holi on March 24 or March 25? Know Puja timings, holika dahan, significance, and traditional rituals

Is Holi on March 24 or March 25?: Holi, also known as the Festival of Colours, stands as one of Hinduism's most revered festivals, celebrated with unparalleled enthusiasm and fervour throughout India. This vibrant occasion, also known as 'Dol jatra' or 'Basanta Utsav' in certain regions, signifies the arrival of spring and the departure of winter. As the full moon of the Hindu month of Phalguna approaches, communities prepare to unite, setting aside differences to revel in life's brighter moments. As Holi approaches in 2024, there's a common confusion: will it be celebrated on March 24 or March 25 this year?

Is Holi on March 24 or March 25?

According to the Hindu calendar, Holi falls on the full moon day of the month of Falgun. This year, the Festival of colours will fall on Monday, March 25, 2024, with the preceding day, Sunday, March 24, commemorating Holika Dahan or Choti Holi. Notably, the auspicious timings for these events are as follows:

• Purnima Tithi Begins: 09:54 AM on March 24, 2024
• Purnima Tithi Ends: 12:29 PM on March 25, 2024

Historical Roots of Holi:

The vibrancy of Holi finds its roots in Hindu mythology, notably the tale of Hiranyakashipu and Prahlad. Legend has it that Prahlad, a devoted disciple of Lord Vishnu, was safeguarded from the malicious schemes of his father, Hiranyakashyap. Holika, Hiranyakashyap's sister, possessed the power of fire immunity, intending to use it to eliminate Prahlad by luring him into her lap within a raging inferno. However, the flames consumed Holika instead, symbolising the victory of good over evil, a narrative celebrated during Holika Dahan.

Regional Significance:

In regions like Mathura and Vrindavan, Holi transcends mythological boundaries to celebrate the divine love shared by Lord Krishna and Radha.

Significance of Holi:

Holi holds profound religious significance within Hinduism, standing as one of its pivotal events. The festival spans two consecutive days, commencing with Choti Holi and culminating in Dulhendi or Badi Holi. Holika Dahan, a symbolic bonfire lit on the eve of Choti Holi, marks the beginning of festivities. Participants gather to worship Holika, circling the bonfire seven times before indulging in the jubilant splendour of Dulhendi.

Cultural Celebrations:

During Dulhendi, people engage in a kaleidoscope of colours, adorning each other's faces with vibrant hues in a gesture of shared joy. Alongside exchanging sweets and delicacies, music and merriment fill the air as families and friends come together to revel in the festive spirit.