Holashtak 2026 Start Date: The festival of Holi brings excitement and joy to everyone. It is believed that on this day, people forget past grudges and apply colors to each other, adding sweetness to relationships. This festival of colors is celebrated after the burning of Holika. Holika Dahan is considered a symbol of the victory of good over evil. It is believed that this fire burns negative energies and purifies the environment. The period of Holashtak also ends on this day.

According to religious beliefs, Holashtak is considered an inauspicious time. During this time, any auspicious or inauspicious work is avoided. Let us find out when Holashtak will begin and last in 2026, and what activities should be avoided during this period.

Date of Holashtak 2026

Holashtak begins on the Ashtami (eighth day) of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) of the month of Phalgun. In 2026, it will begin on February 24th and end on March 3rd, the day of Holika Dahan. Every year, Holashtak begins exactly eight days before Holi. These eight days are considered prohibited for auspicious activities.

Why are auspicious activities not performed during Holashtak?

According to one belief, the period of Holashtak is associated with negative forces. It is considered a period of unrest and obstacles, so auspicious activities like marriage and housewarming are not performed during this period.

According to another legend, during these eight days, the demon king Hiranyakashipu tortured his son, devotee Prahlad, to make him abandon his devotion to Lord Vishnu. However, Prahlad remained steadfast in his devotion. Ultimately, to protect him, Lord Vishnu took the form of Narasimha and killed Hiranyakashipu. Holika Dahan is celebrated in memory of this incident.

What activities should be avoided during Holashtak?

Avoid auspicious events like marriage, engagement, or housewarming.

Postpone the farewell of your daughter-in-law or daughter.

Do not perform rituals like Mundan, Upanayana, Namkaran, or Vidya Prarambh.

Avoid starting a new business or any major undertaking.

Do not purchase valuable items like a house, vehicle, plot, gold, or silver.

It is considered auspicious to spend the period of Holashtak with restraint and caution, while auspicious tasks can be started after Holika Dahan.

PC Social Media