Holashtak marks the eight days leading up to the vibrant festival of Holi. While Holi is celebrated with joy and enthusiasm, Holashtak is considered an inauspicious phase. Started on March 7 and set to end on March 13, this period is astrologically believed to bring negative influences due to unfavourable planetary alignments.
Many traditional Hindu customs advise against initiating new ventures during these days. However, there are several spiritual practices one can follow to counteract the adverse energies. Let’s take a closer look at what to do and what to avoid during Holashtak 2025.
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Things to do during Holashtak 2025
Visit temples and seek blessings
Since this period is believed to carry negative vibrations, visiting temples and offering prayers is highly recommended. Seeking the divine blessings of Lord Vishnu or Lord Shiva can provide spiritual protection and peace of mind.
Recite lord Vishnu’s Narasimha Mantras
According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Vishnu, in his Narasimha avatar, protected his devotee Prahlada from the tyrant Hiranyakashipu during this time. Chanting hymns dedicated to Lord Narasimha, such as the Narasimha Kavacham, is believed to dispel negativity and offer spiritual protection.
Perform charitable acts
Donating to the needy is considered an effective way to neutralise negative planetary influences. Whether it is food, clothes, or financial assistance, acts of charity attract positive karma and reduce potential obstacles.
Things to avoid during Holashtak 2025
Since this phase is considered astrologically unfavorable, it is advised to refrain from starting any significant ventures. The following activities are best postponed until after Holashtak:
Weddings and auspicious ceremonies
Marriage ceremonies are believed to require a harmonious planetary alignment, which is not present during Holashtak. Therefore, weddings should ideally be planned before or after this period.
Griha Pravesh (Housewarming ceremonies)
Moving into a new home during Holashtak is not advised, as it is believed to bring negative energies into the household.
Naming ceremonies and mundan (First haircut for children)
Naming a newborn or conducting a child’s first haircut is considered sacred and should be done during an auspicious period, which Holashtak is not.
Buying new property, vehicles, or jewellery
Making large investments, such as purchasing a new house, car, or expensive jewellery, is best avoided, as this phase is associated with financial instability and obstacles.
Starting new business ventures
Entrepreneurs and professionals should delay the launch of new projects or business ventures, as the energy during this time is not conducive to success.
