Holika Dahan
GujaratiAlso known as: Holika Bonfire, Chhoti Holi, Kamadahana
Holika Dahan
About Holika Dahan
Holika Dahan is celebrated on the eve of Holi, commemorating the burning of the demoness Holika who tried to kill her nephew Prahlad.
In Gujarat, large bonfires are lit in communities and people gather to perform rituals. The fire symbolises the destruction of evil and protection of the righteous.
The ritual involves circling the bonfire, offering prayers, and burning away negative energies. People apply sacred ash for protection.
Holika Dahan sets the spiritual tone for Holi celebrations, reminding devotees of divine protection.
Vrat Vidhi & Fasting Rules
Some devotees observe a partial fast.
- Clean the bonfire area.
- Collect wood and materials.
- Perform rituals around the bonfire.
- Apply sacred ash to the body.
Parana (Breaking Fast) Note: The fast is broken after the rituals.
Puja Samagri & Ritual Steps
- Collect wood and havana samagri.
- Light the bonfire at the auspicious time.
- Circle the bonfire and offer prayers.
- Offer grains, coconut, and flowers.
- Collect and apply sacred ash.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The demoness Holika tried to kill Prahlad in a fire. Prahlad was protected by Vishnu while Holika burned.
It symbolises the destruction of evil and protection of the righteous.
Note: All timings are represented in 24-hour notation in local time of the selected location with DST adjustment (if applicable).
Hours which are past midnight are suffixed with next day date. In Panchang, a day starts and ends with local sunrise.
Recommended Pages
Comprehensive annual Hindu calendar with tithis and festivals.
Detailed month-wise view of lunar tithis and celestial events.
Marathi Panchang and festive dates for the year.
Gujarati Vikram Samvat calendar and festivals.
Telugu calendar and festive Panchangam details.
Tamil solar calendar dates and monthly Panchangam.