Holashtak is eight days observed before Holi, the festival of colours. In many parts of North India, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, Holashtak is considered an inauspicious period. During these days, people refrain from conducting significant life events, such as weddings, engagements, and housewarming ceremonies.
But why is Holashtak 2025 seen as unfavourable? What should you do and avoid during this time? Read on to understand the significance of Holashtak, its mythological origins, and the dos and don'ts you must follow.
As per the Purnimant Hindu calendar, Holashtak begins on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Falgun month and ends on the full moon day (Purnima).
Each day of Holashtak is believed to be influenced by an aggressive planet, creating an imbalance in energy. Here¡¯s how planetary influence unfolds:
Because of these planetary effects, any auspicious activities performed during Holashtak may face obstacles and delays.
Holashtak holds great mythological importance in Hindu beliefs. According to legend, this period is linked to the story of Lord Shiva and Kamadeva.?Goddess Parvati wanted to break Lord Shiva¡¯s deep meditation so that he would accept her as his consort. She sought the help of Kamadeva (God of Love) to awaken Shiva. However, when Kamadeva disturbed Shiva¡¯s meditation, an angry Shiva opened his third eye, reducing Kamadeva to ashes.
It is believed that this incident happened at the beginning of Holashtak, and as a result, planetary positions remained disturbed during this period. Due to these negative planetary influences, people avoid performing major life events during Holashtak.
Even though Holashtak is considered inauspicious for important ceremonies, there are some positive practices to follow:
? Engage in Spiritual Activities: Instead of conducting rituals, people meditate, chant mantras, and worship Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva for divine blessings.
? Prepare for Holika Dahan: Holika Dahan, the ritual of burning Holika before Holi, is an essential part of Holashtak. Many communities tie colourful cloths on tree branches and later burn them in the Holika fire.
? Charity & Donations: Holashtak is an ideal time for giving to the needy. People donate food, clothes, and money to seek blessings and good fortune.
? Perform Tarpan and Pitra Daan: Many people perform rituals for their ancestors to attain peace and prosperity in their families.
? Enhance Inner Positivity: As this period is linked with spiritual energy, it¡¯s the best time to focus on yoga, self-reflection, and positive thinking.
To prevent misfortune, avoid these activities during Holashtak:
? Avoid Weddings & Engagements: Since Holashtak is considered unfavourable, marriages, engagements, and other significant ceremonies should be postponed.
? No New Business Ventures: Starting a new business, investing in property, or launching major projects is not advisable during this period.
? Do Not Buy New Assets: Avoid purchasing a new car, house, land, or gold during Holashtak. These decisions are best made before or after this time.
? No Sacred Rituals & Havan: Performing Yagya (fire rituals), housewarming (Griha Pravesh), and other pujas should be avoided as they may not yield positive results.
? Postpone Major Life Decisions: Whether it's changing jobs, relocating, or making critical personal or financial decisions, it's best to wait until Holashtak ends.
After eight days of Holashtak, the negativity is believed to burn away with Holika Dahan, symbolising the victory of good over evil. The following day, Holi is celebrated with joy, colours, and festivities. This marks the end of inauspiciousness and the arrival of prosperity and happiness.
Holashtak is an eight-day period of transformation where people refrain from major life events but focus on spiritual upliftment, charity, and preparation for Holi. As Holashtak 2025 approaches, be mindful of the dos and don¡¯ts to avoid misfortune and welcome positivity and blessings into your life.
Are you ready for Holi after Holashtak? Let us know how you plan to observe this period!
(Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.)
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