Holika Dahan
होलिका दहन
The night before Holi. Bonfires are lit to celebrate the victory of good over evil, commemorating young Prahlad's unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu despite the demoness Holika's attempt to burn him.
Why We Celebrate
Holika Dahan commemorates the legend of Prahlad, a young devotee of Lord Vishnu, and his evil aunt Holika. Prahlad's father, the demon king Hiranyakashipu, despised Vishnu and tried to kill his own son for worshipping the deity. He ordered Holika, who had a boon that made her immune to fire, to sit in a blazing fire while holding Prahlad on her lap. But devotion prevailed — Prahlad emerged unharmed while Holika burned to ashes.
On this night, communities gather to light massive bonfires (the Holika pyre), symbolizing the burning away of evil, negativity, and ego. People walk around the fire (parikrama), offer coconut and grains, and sing devotional songs. The fire is seen as purifying, and its ashes are considered sacred. The warmth of the bonfire also marks the end of winter and the welcoming of spring.
Holika Dahan sets the tone for Holi the next morning — a day of joy, color, and play. The ritual reminds us that faith and righteousness always triumph over arrogance and malice, no matter how powerful evil may seem.
Did You Know?
- ✦The Holika bonfire must be lit at a specific astrological time (muhurat) determined by the Purnima (full moon) and the Bhadra period ending — lighting it at the wrong time is considered inauspicious.
- ✦In some regions, people save a piece of the Holika bonfire ash to apply on their foreheads for protection throughout the year.
- ✦The tradition of applying colors on Holi originally came from the ashes of the Holika fire, which were smeared on each other as a symbol of victory over evil.
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