The month of Phalguna has begun, which marks an important period in Hinduism. This month holds great spiritual significance as it is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Phalguna is the last month of the Hindu calendar, followed by Chaitra, which marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year. This period includes major Hindu festivals such as Mahashivratri and Holi. Before Holi, there are eight days known as Holashtak, which has specific religious beliefs and practices.

Holashtak is considered inauspicious to perform any new or auspicious ceremony. According to Hindu beliefs, the planetary positions are not favorable during these eight days, causing obstacles in major life events. Therefore, all auspicious functions, including marriages, housewarming ceremonies, and naming ceremonies, are postponed. However, this period also has deep spiritual significance, and certain rituals are recommended to maintain positivity and peace.

Holashtak 2025 Start and End Date

According to the Hindu calendar, Holashtak in 2025 will begin on March 7 and end on March 13, a day before Holi. The period ends with Holika Dahan, a ritual that marks the elimination of negativity and the beginning of the joyous festival of colors.

Things to do during Holashtak

Chant Hanuman Chalisa and Mahamrityunjaya Mantra. Reciting these holy verses brings peace, security, and positive energy at home.

Give charity to the needy: Giving food, clothes, and money to the underprivileged is considered a very virtuous act and brings prosperity and blessings.

Perform Pitru Tarpan: Paying tribute to ancestors during this period brings blessings of ancestors and positive karma.

Perform Graha Shanti Prayers (Graha Shanti Puja): Performing these rituals helps reduce the negative effects of planetary movements and brings harmony to life.

Things to avoid during Holashtak

No weddings or ceremonies: Weddings, griha pravesh, mundan (tonsuring ceremony), and naming ceremonies should not be conducted.

Avoid building a new house: As per Hindu traditions, construction of a new house should not be started during Holashtak.

Do not buy gold, silver, or vehicles: Buying precious metals, property, or vehicles during this period is considered inauspicious.

Avoid starting a new business or job: It is advisable to wait till after Holashtak to start any new business or professional endeavor.

Q: What is Holashtak and why is it considered inauspicious?

Ans: Holashtak is the eight-day period before Holi during which no auspicious work is done due to unfavorable planetary positions.

Q: When is Holashtak in 2025?

Ans: Holashtak 2025 will begin on March 7 and end on March 13, a day before Holi.

Q: Can I start a new job or business during Holashtak?

A: It is advisable to avoid new business or job changes during Holashtak due to adverse planetary effects.

Q: What spiritual activities are recommended during Holashtak?

A: Chanting Hanuman Chalisa, donating to the needy, performing Graha Shanti Puja, and paying homage to ancestors are considered beneficial.

Keep these things in mind during Holashtak.

Holashtak is seen as an inauspicious period for new beginnings, but it has great spiritual significance in Hinduism. It is a time for devotion, contemplation, and charity. While major festivities are put on hold, spiritual activities such as chanting, charity, and performing Graha Shanti rituals can bring positive energy and blessings. By following the traditional rules of Holashtak, one can pass this period with meditation and spiritual awareness.