Confusion Due to Full Moon, Bhadra and Lunar Eclipse
By NSB.News Desk
Holi is celebrated with Holika Dahan a day before the festival of colors, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. In 2026, confusion has arisen regarding the correct date and timing because Phalguna Purnima coincides with Bhadra and a lunar eclipse.
According to scriptures, auspicious rituals should not be performed during Bhadra Mukha or eclipse periods. Based on Panchang (Hindu calendar) calculations, here are the detailed timings.
Holika Dahan 2026: Date & Panchang Details
Purnima Begins: March 2, 2026 – 5:55 PM
Purnima Ends: March 3, 2026 – 5:07 PM
Bhadra Period: March 2, 5:56 PM to March 3, 5:28 AM
Auspicious Timings (Shubh Muhurat)
March 2, 2026 (Considered Most Auspicious by Many Scholars)
Since Purnima prevails during Pradosh Kaal (after sunset), many astrologers consider this date ideal:
Main Muhurat: 6:24 PM to 6:36 PM (12 minutes)
Bhadra Puccha Muhurat: 1:23 AM to 2:34 AM (night of March 2)
March 3, 2026 (As Per Some Local Panchangs)
Some regional calendars prioritize Pradosh timing and suggest:
Holika Dahan Muhurat: 6:22 PM to 8:50 PM (Duration: 2 hours 28 minutes)
Dhulandi (Color Holi): Wednesday, March 4, 2026
⚠ Important Precautions
On March 2, Bhadra is in “Bhoomilok,” which is generally considered inauspicious for rituals.
On March 3, Bhadra Mukha lasts from 2:35 AM to 4:30 AM — avoid rituals during this time.
Follow eclipse-related observances during the lunar eclipse period.
Holika Dahan Puja Method (Step-by-Step)
Holika Dahan is associated with worship of Lord Vishnu in his Narasimha incarnation.
- Purification:
Take a bath in the morning and wear clean clothes. Purify the ritual area with holy water. - Required Items:
Roli (vermilion), rice grains, gulal, flowers, raw thread (kalava), turmeric, wheat ears, barley, gram, and cow dung cakes. - Circumambulation:
Tie raw thread around Holika 3 or 7 times while circling it. - Offering:
Offer rice, flowers, and gulal. Roast new crops (wheat or barley) in the sacred fire.
Mythological Significance
The ritual is linked to the story of devotee Prahlad and his father Hiranyakashipu. To punish Prahlad for his devotion to Lord Vishnu, Hiranyakashipu asked his sister Holika—who had a boon protecting her from fire—to sit with Prahlad in flames.
By divine grace, Prahlad remained unharmed while Holika was burned to ashes. The festival symbolizes the ultimate triumph of faith and righteousness over arrogance and evil.
Quick Tips for Holi 2026
Avoid performing Holika Dahan during Bhadra.
Do not conduct rituals during eclipse time.
Since dates may vary regionally, consult a local astrologer if unsure.
Disclaimer: The above information is based on traditional beliefs and Panchang calculations. It is advisable to consult a qualified expert before following any religious observance.