Sun Mar 01 04:10:00 UTC 2026: ### Holika Dahan Date Confirmed Amid Lunar Eclipse Concerns

The Story:
The Hindu festival of Holika Dahan, traditionally celebrated the night before Holi, will be observed on March 2nd according to Kashi’s Panchangs (Hindu calendars). The playing of colors, Rangwali Holi, is scheduled for March 4th. This arrangement is due to a lunar eclipse occurring on March 3rd. Observances related to Holika Dahan will be influenced by the timing of Bhadra, a period considered inauspicious for certain activities, and the upcoming lunar eclipse.

Key Points:

  • Holika Dahan is set for March 2nd, with Rangwali Holi on March 4th.
  • The lunar eclipse on March 3rd necessitates adjustments to the timing of Holika Dahan.
  • Bhadra, an inauspicious period, impacts the timing of Holika Dahan. Holika Dahan is forbidden during Bhadra Kaal.
  • Holika Dahan can occur after 1:00 AM on March 3rd, during “Puchh ki Bhadra,” or after 5:00 AM on March 3rd after Bhadra ends, according to different Panchangs.
  • Holika Dahan will take place at 2549 locations throughout the district: 735 in Kashi Zone, 949 in Varuna Zone, and 865 in Gomati Zone.
  • The Mahashamshan Holi, played with ashes, took place on Saturday (prior to the publication of the article) at Manikarnika Ghat, following traditions and rituals.
  • A lunar eclipse is expected on March 3rd, with the Sutak period (inauspicious period) starting at 6:47 AM and continuing until the eclipse ends.

Key Takeaways:

  • The timing of Holika Dahan is significantly influenced by astrological considerations, specifically Bhadra and the lunar eclipse.
  • Different Panchangs offer slightly varying times for the start and end of Bhadra, leading to multiple options for when to perform Holika Dahan.
  • The article highlights the unique traditions of Kashi, where death and cremation are integrated into festive celebrations, as seen in the Mahashamshan Holi.
  • The lunar eclipse will impact temple schedules, with closures during the Sutak period.

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