Holi 2024: Know the date, puja timings, rituals, historical insights, and significance

PTC News Desk: Holi, the vibrant festival of colors, is eagerly awaited across India and beyond. Falling on the full moon day of the Hindu lunar month Phalguna, typically in February or March, this year's festivities will grace us on March 25.

As one of the most significant festivals on the Hindu calendar, Holi holds profound cultural and social significance. Often dubbed as the Festival of Colours, it unites communities in joyous celebration, fostering bonds of friendship and love. Among the myriad celebrations, the Braj regions, including Mathura, Vrindavan, and Gokul, are renowned for their distinctive Holi rituals. Meanwhile, the iconic Lathmar Holi in Barsana, Uttar Pradesh, captivates spectators worldwide with its spirited revelry.

The festivities commence with Holika Dahan, marked by the lighting of bonfires after sunset, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Subsequently, the following day sees people joyously drenched in colours and water, embodying the playful spirit of Holi.

As Holi 2024 draws near, delve into its date, puja timings, rituals, historical significance, and cultural importance embedded deeply within the fabric of Indian society. 

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Holi 2024: Date and Puja Timings

Holi, celebrated annually on the full moon day of the Falgun month, will grace us on Monday, March 25, 2024. The eve of Holi, known as Holika Dahan or Choti Holi, will be observed on Sunday, March 24.

According to Drik Panchang, the auspicious time for Holi commences at 09:54 am on March 24 and concludes at 12:29 pm on the following day.

Holi 2024: History and Significance

Holika Puja carries deep significance, believed to ward off various fears through the ritual. Legend has it that Prahlad, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, was saved from the sinister schemes of his father, Hiranyakashyap. Holika, Hiranyakashyap’s sister immune to fire, attempted to harm Prahlad using her fire-resistant powers.

However, divine intervention led to Holika's demise in the flames, showcasing the victory of good over evil. This triumph is commemorated on the first day of Holi. Moreover, in locales like Mathura and Vrindavan, the festival embodies a celebration of the divine love between Lord Krishna and Radha.

The Festival of Colours, celebrated during the vibrant spring season in March, symbolises unity and the triumph of righteousness. Holi transcends barriers as people set aside differences to revel together. Communities come alive with the joyous splashes of colorful powders and water, echoing with laughter and music, fostering bonds of camaraderie and celebration.

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(Inputs from agencies)

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