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As soon as a slight hum dissolves in the air of Phalgun, the mind automatically starts running towards colors. The beat of Dholak starts being discussed in the streets and the first batch of Gulal starts being prepared in the markets. But just before this colorful festival of Holi, there comes a time which is considered very important in the Sanatan tradition, Holashtak. People often ask, “When is Holi this year?” And also want to know when is Holashtak starting and what tasks should be avoided. When will Holashtak start in the year 2026, what is the auspicious time of Holika Dahan and on which day Dhulandi will be celebrated, know the complete information here.
When will Holashtak 2026 begin?
According to the Panchang, in the year 2026, Holashtak will start from the Ashtami date of Shukla Paksha of Phalgun month, i.e. 24 February 2026. This period will last till Phalgun Purnima, i.e. 03 March 2026. These eight days are called Holashtak.
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During these eight days, auspicious activities like marriage, engagement, house warming, mundan are avoided. Even today in rural areas, people decide the date by looking at the almanac. The pace may have increased in the cities, but Holashtak is always kept in mind while choosing the date of marriage.
Date of Holika Dahan and Dhulandi
-Holashtak start: 24 February 2026
-Holashtak ends: 03 March 2026
-Holika Dahan: 03 March 2026
-Auspicious time of Holika Dahan (Delhi time): 06:08 to 08:35 pm
-Dhulandi (Coloured Holi): 04 March 2026
Holika Dahan will be done as per the rituals on the evening of 03 March and Holi of colors will be played the next day on 04 March. This is the day when the smile of “Bura na mano holi hai” is visible on every face.
Holashtak 2026 Start DateZoom
Religious significance of Holashtak
Holashtak is related to the mythological story of devotee Prahlad and King Hiranyakashyap. It is believed that in the eight days before Holika Dahan, Hiranyakashyap had tortured his son Prahlad in many ways. But due to his unwavering devotion towards Lord Vishnu, Prahlad remained safe from every crisis.
According to the story, in the end Holika sat in the fire with Prahlad in her lap, but despite the boon, she herself got burnt and Prahlad remained safe. This incident became a symbol of the victory of good over evil. These eight days are considered inauspicious in memory of that struggle and test.
Many astrologers believe that during this period, the position of the planets is such that it is considered better to postpone starting positive actions. However, it is a matter of faith and people follow it according to their devotion.
What activities are prohibited in Holashtak?
According to traditional beliefs during Holashtak:
-Auspicious functions like marriage and engagement are not performed.
-Housewarming, starting new business are postponed
-Mundan and naming ceremony is avoided
In many families, the newly married daughter is advised to stay in her maternal home during this time. Even today in villages the elders strictly enforce these rules. However, in modern lifestyle, some people adopt these beliefs in a flexible manner.
Relevance of Holashtak in changing times
