Holi, the vibrant festival of colours and happiness, is celebrated with much anticipation each year. People prepare weeks in advance by gathering Holi colours, water guns, balloons, and traditional sweets like Gujiyas. One common question that arises annually is the exact date for the celebration, particularly whether Holi and Holika Dahan will occur on the same day.
In 2025, there is confusion about Holika Dahan and Rangwali Holi's dates, with some claiming both are on March 13, while others argue that Bhadra kaal will postpone the celebrations, allowing only Holika Dahan on that date.
Holi 2025: Date
To clarify, Holi will be celebrated on two separate days: Chhoti Holi (Holika Dahan) on March 13 (Thursday), and Rang Holi on March 14 (Friday). According to Drik Panchang, Purnima Tithi is from 10:35 AM on March 13 to 12:23 PM on March 14.
The rituals associated with Holi are deeply rooted in mythology. The night before Rangwali Holi, people gather for Holika Dahan, a ceremonial bonfire. The legend narrates how the demon king Hiranyakashipu attempted to kill his son Prahlad, a devotee of Lord Vishnu.
Holi 2025: Significance
Hiranyakashipu’s sister, Holika, possessed a magical cloak that shielded her from fire and tricked Prahlad into sitting with her in a fire. However, Lord Vishnu intervened, and Holika was burnt in the flames while Prahlad was saved. To commemorate this event, people gather wood, light a bonfire, and offer grains and coconuts while reciting prayers, signifying the triumph of good over evil.
Holi 2025: Celebration
The following day, Holi is celebrated joyously with colors, music, and traditional delicacies such as Gujiya, malpua, and thandai. Participants joyously smear each other with gulal and splash water using pichkaris, fostering camaraderie among friends, family, and even strangers.
The celebration of Holi varies across regions in India. A notable variant is Barsane ki Holi, known as Lathmar Holi, in which women playfully strike men with sticks. In Nandgaon, Lathmar Holi is also observed, while Vrindavan is famous for Phoolon wali Holi, featuring flower play. In Punjab, a unique celebration called Hola Mohalla involves both men and women participating on horseback and playing with colors, showcasing the vibrant diversity of Holi celebrations across India.
