Is Holashtak 2024 Unlucky? Learn About the Eight-Day Period Before Holi Celebration
What are the Holashtak 2024 Dates?
For certain Hindu groups in North India, Holashtak is an unlucky eight-day period leading up to the Holi celebration. So, when does Holashtak 2024 begin and end? The Holashtak 2024 dates are as follows: Holashtak starts on March 17, 2024, and concludes on March 25, 2024.
What does Holashtak 2024 Signify?
The terms “Holi” and “Ashtak,” which refer to the eight days leading up to Holi, are combined to form the term “Holashtak.” So, what significance does Holashtak 2024 hold? Religious traditions state that all auspicious events, including marriages, ceremonies, Mundan (tonsure ceremony), housewarmings, etc., are deemed unlucky and should be avoided during these eight days.
When is Holika Dahan 2024? And What About Holi?
So, when exactly is Holika Dahan 2024 and when does Holi occur? All of the planets are in an adverse position during Holashtak, which means that good deeds will have positive actions. Holashtak 2024 will begin on March 17, 2024, which is the eighth day of the brilliant fortnight of the month of Falgun. Holika Dahan will be celebrated on March 24, 2024, and colorful Holi will be played on March 25, 2024.
What are the Auspicious Timings for Holika Dahan?
What are the auspicious timings for Holika Dahan 2024? According to Drik Panchang, Holika Dahan is scheduled on March 24, 2024, followed by Holi on March 25, 2024. Here are the details of auspicious timings:
- Bhadra Punchha – 06:33 PM to 07:53 PM
- Bhadra Mukha – 07:53 PM to 10:06 PM
Holika Dahan, also known as Holika Deepak or Chhoti Holi, is required to be done at Pradosh Kaal, which starts after sundown and occurs during the Purnima Tithi, according to Hindu scriptures. Bhadra governs throughout the early half of Purnima Tithi, thus it’s best to stay away from any helpful labor during that period.
How Does the Lunar Eclipse Affect Holi Celebrations in 2024?
This year, on March 16 at 09:39 PM, Falgun Shukla Ashtami Tithi ends at 09:53 AM on March 17. Thus, according to Udayatithi, March 17 is Phalgun Shukla Ashtami Tithi, which marks the start of Holashtak. On March 24, 2024, Phalgun Purnima, Holashtak ends with Holika Dahan.
As a result, the eight-day Holashtak period ends on March 24 and is succeeded by the Holi festival on March 25. The full moon day of the Shukla Paksha in the Falgun month will begin at the following times, according to the Vedic Panchang:
- Purnima Tithi Begins – 09:54 AM On Mar 24, 2024
- Purnima Tithi Ends – 12:29 PM On Mar 25, 2024
Therefore, on March 25, Holi will be observed beneath the shadow of the moon eclipse.
What Rituals Are Observed during Holashtak?
People begin adorning tree branches with brightly colored clothing as Holashtak approaches. So, what rituals are observed during Holashtak? After every person ties a piece of fabric onto the branch, it is eventually buried in the earth. A small number of villages even burn these garment remnants on Holika Dahan.
Additionally, Falgun Shukla Paksha Ashtami is celebrated on the first day of Holashtak, and a location is selected for Holika Dahan. At Holika Dahan’s location, little sticks are gathered and collected every day.
What Are the Dos and Don’ts during Holashtak 2024?
Puja is important during Holashtak. So, what should you do and what not during Holashtak 2024? Chant and penance should be done throughout this period. The ceremonies for Holashtak include worshiping Lord Vishnu and one’s favorite deities. One gains happiness, tranquility, money, and prosperity.
We should contribute to the needy, adore the young, and respect the aged during Holashtak. During Holashtak, Hiranyakashyap may have tormented his son Prahlad. We should respect the elderly and love the younger ones now. This boosts honor and reputation.
Use Abeer Gulal and recite Sri Sukta to worship Lord Rama and Krishna Vasudev every day during Holashtak.
Daily devotion to Lord Bholenath at Holashtak with the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra would cure ailments, defects, and suffering. Distress will cease.
Marriage, housewarming, naming, tonsure, etc. should not be done during Holashtak. It was time to torment Prahlad.
Avoid land and home deals during Holashtak. No Bhoomi Pujan. Avoid booking and prepayment. Losses are possible.
Avoid religious rites like Yagya Havan during Holashtak. Holashtak ceremonies are hindered, therefore the sacrifice needs to be completed. No commerce or trade shall commence during Holashtak.
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