Holi 2024 Date: Is Holi Celebrated on March 24 or 25? Know Exact Date And Time

Holi, one of the most cherished Hindu festivals, is celebrated with great fervor and excitement throughout India. In West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura, it is also known as the 'Festival of Colours', 'Dol jatra', or 'Basanta Utsav'.

Traditionally, Holi is celebrated in February or March in the Gregorian calendar, marking the arrival of spring and the end of winter. It coincides with the full moon or Purnima on the evening of the Hindu month of Phalguna. It's a time for people to come together, set aside their differences, and celebrate life's brighter moments.

As the festival of colours, Holi is just around the corner, many are still uncertain about the exact date for the celebration. However, fear not! This article will provide you with the correct date and time of Holi 2024, along with insights into the festival's significance and more.

Is Holi 2024 celebrated on March 24 or 25?

As per the Hindu calendar, Holi is commemorated annually on the full moon day of the month of Falgun. In 2024, this grand festival will be observed on Monday, March 25th. The day before Holi, known as Holika Dahan or Choti Holi, will be celebrated on Sunday, March 24th. According to Drik Panchang, the auspicious timings are as follows:

Holi 2024 Date in India

Holika Dahan or Choti Holi Date 2024	Sunday, March 24, 2024
Holi or Dhulandi or Dhuleti Date 2024	Monday, March 25, 2024
Purnima Tithi Begins	09:54 AM on March 24, 2024
Purnima Tithi Ends	12:29 PM on March 25, 2024

Holi 2024 History

Holi celebration

The festival of Holi has its roots in Hindu mythology and is associated with several legends. One of the most popular stories is about Prahlad, the son of the demon king Hiranyakashipu, and his aunt Holika.

According to the legend, Hiranyakashipu was a tyrant who wanted to be worshiped as God. However, his son Prahlad was a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu. Despite his father's warnings, Prahlad continued to worship Vishnu, which angered Hiranyakashipu. To punish his son, Hiranyakashipu sought the help of his sister Holika, who had a boon that made her immune to fire.

Holika tricked Prahlad into sitting with her in a pyre, intending to burn him alive. However, due to his unwavering devotion, Prahlad emerged unscathed from the fire, while Holika was consumed by the flames. This event symbolises the victory of good over evil and is celebrated as Holika Dahan, the eve of Holi.

Another popular legend associated with Holi is the story of Lord Krishna and Radha. In many states like Mathura and Vrindavan, Holi is also observed as a celebration of the divine love shared by Lord Krishna and Radha. According to this legend, Krishna, known for his playful nature, was envious of Radha's fair complexion. In a mischievous mood, Krishna applied colours to Radha's face, making her complexion similar to his. This playful act is believed to be the origin of the tradition of applying colours during Holi.

Holi is a celebration of the triumph of good over evil, the arrival of spring, and the joy of love and friendship. It is a time for people to come together, forget their differences, and celebrate the vibrant colours of life.

Celebration of Holi

In many regions, the Holi festival is celebrated over two days. The first day is called Jalanewali Holi, which is when the Holi bonfire is lit. This day is also known as Chhoti Holi and Holika Dahan. In South India, Holika Dahan is referred to as Kama Dahanam. The second day is known as Rangwali Holi, which is when people play with colored powder and water. Rangwali Holi, also known as Dhulandi or Dhulendi, is the main day of Holi. Other less common pronunciations of Dhulandi include Dhuleti and Dhulheti.

Significance of Holi

Holi, also known as the Festival of colours, holds immense significance in Hindu culture and is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India and in various parts of the world. The festival marks the arrival of spring, the end of winter, and the victory of good over evil. Here are some of the key aspects of Holi's significance:

The victory of Good over Evil: The festival commemorates the triumph of good over evil, as illustrated in the legend of Prahlad and Holika. It symbolises the victory of righteousness over malevolence, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.

Celebration of Love and Friendship: Holi is a time for people to come together and celebrate the bonds of love and friendship. It is a day to forgive and forget, to mend broken relationships, and to express affection for one another.

Cultural and Social Harmony: Holi transcends religious and social barriers, bringing people of different backgrounds together in a spirit of unity and harmony. It is a festival that promotes inclusivity and celebrates the diversity of Indian culture.

Cleansing and Renewal: The festival also has a cleansing and renewing aspect. It is a time to rid oneself of past grievances and negative emotions, and to start afresh with a positive outlook.

Celebration of Spring: Holi is celebrated at the onset of spring, a season of new beginnings and renewal. The festival is marked by vibrant colours, flowers, and the joyous spirit of springtime.

Agricultural Significance: Holi is also associated with agriculture and the harvest season. It is a time when farmers celebrate the arrival of spring and the promise of a bountiful harvest.

(Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.)

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