Holi 2026 Date Confirmed: Complete Guide to Holika Dahan Muhurat, Shubh Timing, Bhadra Kaal Details, Significance & City-Wise Variations

Holi in 2026 will take place on the 4th of March, 2026 (Holi Ka Dahan) on the second or third of March with a debate concerning the lunar eclipses. Holish Dahan is significant because of its commitment to the celebration of the triumph of good over evil demonstrated in the burning of the demoness Holika who had killed Prahlad (the devotee of Vishnu) and his Victory over Holika.

Holika Dahan Muhurat

On the evening of March 2 during Pradosh Kaal (usually 6:22 PM to 8:50 PM IST), you can celebrate Holika Dahan at its peak time. Please confirm the times locally because Purnima Tithi is between March 2 (5:55 PM) through March 3 (5:07 PM), which makes these tims valid for the Holika Dahan as long as Purnima is present to give strength to Holika Dahan.

Significance of Holika Dahan

As Holika Dahan symbolizes the destruction of negativity, historical sins, and evil influences through its holy fire, its origins can be traced back to the story of Prince Prahlad being saved by Lord Vishnu and Holika’s death by fire. Families come together to pray for blessings of wealth, togetherness, and safety from harm.

Bhadra Kaal Details

Avoid doing rituals during Bhadra Kaal (2:38 AM on March 2 to 5:30 AM on March 3, then 3 early morning hours) as this will bring bad luck and fortune to your life. Holika Dahan can be performed after Bhadra Kaal in Pradosh to receive positive energy and blessings.

Rangwali Holi Date

The date of the main celebration of Rangwali Holi, which is the festival celebrated with colored powders, is March 4, 2026, which is one day after Holika Dahan. On this day, many people throughout the nation celebrate with colors, sweets such as gujiya and thandai, and by visiting their friends and family to share happiness. Many states also observe this day as a public holiday (or half-day), especially in North and Central India.

City-Wise Variations

Most places in the country will have Holika Dahan on March 2/3, and Holi will be celebrated on March 4, except for Mathura-Vrindavan, which begins their celebrations a week before; some areas have added the time from when the eclipse starts until the eclipse ends.

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