Holashtak 2024: Time and Date, Customs, Actions and Inactions!
Holashtak, which occurs eight days before Holi, is considered unfortunate by some Hindu communities in North India. The following are the Holashtak 2024 dates: Holashtak takes place from March 17, 2024, to March 25, 2024.
The word “Holashtak” is a combination of the words “Holi” and “Ashtak,” which denote the eight days preceding Holi. According to religious customs, all happy occasions—marriages, rituals, the Mundan (tonsure ceremony), housewarmings, etc.—should be avoided during these eight days since they are considered unfortunate.
During Holashtak, every planet is in an unfavourable position, meaning that good deeds will result in excellent deeds. March 17, 2024, the eighth day of the magnificent fortnight of the month of Falgun, will mark the start of Holashtak 2024. On March 24, 2024, Holika Dahan will be observed, and on March 25, 2024, vibrant Holi will be performed.
Timing And Date Of Holika Dahan
According to Drik Panchang, this year’s Holika Dahan is set for March 24 and Holi for the very following day, March 25. The following contains all of the details regarding the timings and Shubh Muhurat:
Bhadra Punchha: from 6:33 to 7:53 p.m.
Bhadra Mukha: from 7:53 p.m. until 10:06p.m.
Holika Dahan with Bhadra during Pradosh
Holiday Purnima Beginning at 09:54 AM, Tithi 24 Mar 2024
Purnima Tithi Ends on March 25, 2024, at 12:29 PM
According to Hindu scriptures, Holika Dahan, also called Holika Deepak or Chhoti Holi, must be performed during Pradosh Kaal, which begins after sundown and takes place during the Purnima Tithi. Early Purnima Tithi is ruled by Bhadra, hence it is advisable to avoid doing any beneficial work during that time.
Celebrations of Holi Beneath the Lunar Eclipse
This year, Falgun Shukla Ashtami Tithi concludes at 09:53 AM on March 17 and begins at 09:39 PM on March 16. Thus, March 17 is Phalgun Shukla Ashtami Tithi, which signifies the beginning of Holashtak, according to Udayatithi. Phalgun Purnima, Holashtak concludes with Holika Dahan on March 24, 2024.
As a result, on March 24, the eight-day Holashtak period comes to a close, and on March 25, the Holi celebration begins. The Vedic Panchang states that the Shukla Paksha full moon day in the Falgun month will start at the following times:
On March 24, 2024, at 09:54 AM, Purnima Tithi begins.
End of Purnima Tithi – 12:29 PM March 25, 2024
Holi will therefore be celebrated on March 25 under the cover of the lunar eclipse.
Customs around Holashtak
As Holashtak draws near, people start hanging colourful clothes from tree branches. It is eventually buried in the ground after each person has tied a piece of cloth onto the branch. On Holika Dahan, a few villages even set fire to these leftover garments.
On the first day of Holashtak, Falgun Shukla Paksha Ashtami is also observed, and a place is chosen for Holika Dahan. Little sticks are gathered and collected daily at Holika Dahan’s location.
The Right and Wrong Ways to Handle Holashtak 2024
Holashtak is a time when puja is significant. During this time, chanting and penance should be performed. Worshipping one’s favourite deity and Lord Vishnu are part of the Holashtak rituals. Prosperity, money, happiness, and peace of mind are gained.
During Holashtak, we ought to love the young, respect the elderly, and give to the poor. It is possible that Hiranyakashyap tortured his son Prahlad during Holashtak. Now is the time to embrace the young and show respect to the elderly. This enhances repute and honour.
Every day during Holashtak, worship Lord Rama and Krishna Vasudev by reciting Sri Sukta and using Abeer Gulal.
Diseases, flaws, and suffering could be cured by daily devotion to Lord Bholenath at Holashtak with the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra. There will be no more distress.
It is improper to be married, have a housewarming party, be named, get tonsured, etc. during Holi. Now was the moment to punish Prahlad.
Avert buying or selling of real estate during Holi. Not a Bhoomi Pujan. Don’t make reservations or payments in advance. It’s possible to lose.
Steer clear of religious ceremonies like Yagya Havan on Holi. Because holashtak rites are impeded, the sacrifice must be finished. During Holashtak, no trade or commerce may begin.
