Patna : Holika Dahan, the traditional bonfire ritual marking the beginning of Holi, will take place tonight under the Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra. The auspicious occasion falls on Phalguna Purnima, which begins at 10:11 am today, coinciding with the start of Bhadra. According to the Panchang, Bhadra will last until 10:47 pm, after which the preferred timing for Holika Dahan is from 11:26 pm to 12:30 am on Friday.
Significance of Timing in Holika Dahan
Astrologer Acharya Rakesh Jha explains that scriptures outline three key conditions for an ideal Holika Dahan: it should take place on Purnima (full moon night), in a Bhadra-free period, and during the night. Since Purnima prevails on the night of March 13, and Bhadra concludes at 10:47 pm, Holika Dahan is scheduled for tonight, under the Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra.
Rituals for Health and Prosperity
Devotees perform Holika Puja using rice, Ganga water, sandalwood, turmeric, sacred threads, lamps, and sweets. They then circle the bonfire seven times, offering wheat, jaggery, sesame, camphor, incense, barley, ghee, mango wood, and cow dung cakes into the flames. According to belief, this ritual brings peace, prosperity, and freedom from illness and sorrow.
“The fire of Holika symbolises the destruction of negative energy. By worshipping during this time, people pray for their inner pains, diseases, and hardships to be burnt away,” says Acharya Jha. Chanting Om Holikaaye Namah is considered particularly beneficial during the ritual.
Sacred Ash and Agricultural Blessings
The ashes from Holika Dahan are considered highly auspicious. Roasting wheat, gram, and sugarcane in the fire is believed to bring good fortune. Many apply Holika ash in the evening to attract prosperity and longevity. The festival also marks prayers for an abundant harvest, with roasted rice traditionally consumed to promote good health.
Preparations Underway in Patna
In Patna’s Agamkuan area, preparations for the ceremony are in full swing, with devotees gathering materials and setting up for the evening’s rituals. The festival, deeply rooted in faith and tradition, continues to bring communities together in celebration of renewal and harmony.
