Holashtak 2026: As soon as the gentle humming of the Phalgun month wafts through the air, the mind automatically turns to colors. The beats of the dholak fill the streets and neighborhoods, and the first batches of gulal (colourful powder) begin to adorn the markets. But just before this colorful celebration of Holi, there comes a time considered extremely important in the Sanatan tradition: Holashtak. People often ask, "When is Holi this year?" They also want to know when Holashtak begins and what activities should be avoided. When will Holashtak begin in 2026? What is the auspicious time for Holika Dahan, and on which day will Dhulandi be celebrated? Learn all the details here.

When will Holashtak 2026 begin?

According to the calendar, Holashtak in 2026 will begin on the Ashtami Tithi of the Shukla Paksha of the Phalgun month, i.e., February 24, 2026. This period will last until Falgun Purnima, March 3, 2026. These eight days are called Holashtak.

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During these eight days, auspicious events like marriage, engagement, house warming, and tonsure are avoided. In rural areas, people still consult the almanac to decide the date. While the pace of life in cities has accelerated, Holashtak is still considered when choosing a wedding date.

Holika Dahan and Dhulandi Dates
-Holika Ashtami Begins: February 24, 2026
-Holika Ashtami Ends: March 3, 2026
-Holika Dahan: March 3, 2026
-Auspicious Time for Holika Dahan (Delhi Standard Time): 6:08 PM to 8:35 PM
-Dhulendi (Colorful Holi): March 4, 2026
Holika Dahan will be performed with due rituals on the evening of March 3, and the Holi of Colors will be played the next day, March 4. This is the day when the smile of "Don't mind, it's Holi" is visible on every face.

Religious Significance of Holika Ashtami
Holashtami is linked to the mythological story of devotee Prahlad and King Hiranyakashyap. It is believed that in the eight days preceding Holika Dahan, Hiranyakashyap inflicted various tortures on his son Prahlad. But Prahlad emerged unscathed from every crisis due to his unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu.

According to legend, Holika finally sat in the fire with Prahlad in her lap, but despite the boon, she burned herself, leaving Prahlad unharmed. This incident symbolized the triumph of good over evil. These eight days are considered inauspicious in remembrance of this struggle and test.

Many astrologers believe that the planetary positions during this period are such that it is best to postpone beginning any positive endeavor. However, this is a matter of faith, and people follow these rules according to their faith.

What activities are prohibited during Holashtak?
According to traditional beliefs, during Holashtak:
-Auspicious events like marriage and engagement are avoided
-Griha Pravesh (house warming ceremony), starting a new business, are postponed
-Mundan (head shaving ceremony) and Namkaran (naming ceremony) are avoided
In many families, newly married daughters are advised to stay at their parents' home during this time. Even today, elders in villages strictly enforce these rules. However, some people adopt these beliefs in a flexible way in modern lifestyles.

The Relevance of Holashtak in Changing Times
Interestingly, while banquet halls are booked months in advance for weddings, many families still avoid Holashtak dates when planning their events. Keywords like "Holi 2026 Date" and "Holashtak 2026 Start Date" also trend on social media as soon as the new year begins.

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