By Vishwapati
Patna: This year, the festival of Holi will be celebrated with a rare astrological occurrence, creating both excitement and some confusion among devotees. Due to the Phalguna Shukla Purnima Tithi spanning two days, there has been uncertainty regarding the exact dates for Holika Dahan and Rangotsav. According to the Mithila and Banaras Panchang, Holika Dahan will take place on Thursday, 13th March, while the festival of colours, Holi, will be celebrated on Saturday, 15th March.
Jyotish Acharyas explain that the Phalguna Purnima Tithi begins at 10:11 am on 13th March, coinciding with the start of Bhadra Kaal, which will last until 10:47 pm. As per religious beliefs, Holika Dahan is considered inauspicious during Bhadra Kaal. Therefore, the ideal time for Holika Dahan will be after 10:47 pm, during the Uttaraphalguni Nakshatra. The Purnima Tithi will continue until 11:22 pm on Friday, 14th March, which will also mark the observance of Snan-Daan Purnima, a day dedicated to ritual bathing, charity, and offering vermilion to Kuldevta (family deities).
The main festival of Holi, the vibrant festival of colours, will be celebrated on 15th March. Religious texts suggest that celebrating Holi on Chaitra Krishna Pratipada is most appropriate. On this day, Uttaraphalguni Nakshatra will prevail until 7:46 am, followed by Hasta Nakshatra throughout the day. Additionally, Vriddhi Yoga, beginning at 12:55 pm, will enhance the auspiciousness of the day for festive activities.
Religious and Astrological Significance of Holika Dahan
Holika Dahan symbolises the triumph of good over evil. Devotees worship Lord Shiva on this day, seeking happiness and prosperity. Astrologically, Holika Dahan requires the presence of Purnima Tithi, a Bhadra-free period, and a night Muhurta. This year, the most auspicious time for Holika Dahan will be after 10:47 pm on 13th March.
Importance of Colours in Holi
Colours hold a special place in Holi celebrations. Red, yellow, and pink are considered particularly auspicious, as they symbolise love, joy, and positivity. The festival strengthens bonds of love, harmony, and brotherhood within communities.
Festive Preparations in Full Swing
Markets across Patna and Bihar are bustling with activity as people shop for colours, gulal, pichkaris, and sweets. Traditional delicacies like Gujhiya, Malpua, and Dahi-Vada are being prepared with enthusiasm. This year, the combination of auspicious constellations and unique astrological alignments has made Holi even more special. With preparations in full swing, the festival promises to be celebrated with immense joy, love, and fervour.
(The author, Vishwapati, is a senior journalist based in Patna. He may be contacted at vishwapati25@gmail.com)
