Holi 2026: Holi, also known as Rangwali Holi or Dhulandi, is one of the most-loved festivals in India. The festival of colours is all about people coming together and celebrating with gulal and sweets.
This year, Holi will be observed on March 4. It falls on a full moon day (Purnima) in the Hindu month of Phalguna.
Also known as Rangwali Holi or Dhulandi, celebrates the arrival of spring and takes place a day after Chhoti Holi or Holika Dahan, which symbolises the victory of good over evil.
Holika Dahan Date, Muhurat
The most auspicious time for performing the Holika Dahan bonfire is during Pradosh Kaal, which begins after sunset, while the Purnimasi Tithi prevails.
Holika Dahan’s specific timings are from 6:22 p.m. to 8:50 p.m. on March 3, as per Drik Panchang. The timings for the Purnima Tithi are as follows:
- Purnima Tithi Begins at 05:55 p.m. on Mar 02, 2026
- Purnima Tithi Ends at 05:07 p.m. on Mar 03, 2026
The Holika Dahan ritual, which literally translates as “the burning of Holika,” involves creating a pyre of wood, dried leaves, twigs and cow dung cakes. Effigies of both Prahlad and Holika are placed atop the pyre.
Prahlad’s idol is removed as the pyre begins to burn or just before the fire is lit, symbolising Prahlad’s protection from the fire. Holika’s idol, representing evil, is allowed to burn to ashes. Devotees often do Parikrama, or walk around the fire and utter prayers and chants to ward off negative energies and seek prosperity.
Holi 2026 Date
Holi will be celebrated on March 4 this year. It is celebrated after Holika Dahan.
Holi Rituals
People apply ‘gulal’ or other colours on friends, loved ones, even strangers. Then share sweets like Gujiya, Malpua and Thandai, among others. Davi Vadas are also eaten during this time. Children apply Gulal on their parents’ feet to seek their blessings.
Holi 2026: Origin
Both Holika Dahan and Holi symbolise the victory of good over evil. As per mythology, the story of Prahlad and Hiranyakshyap is linked to Holi and how Hiranyakshyap’s sister Holika was burnt alive in the fire he lit to kill his son Prahlad, a devotee of Lord Vishnu.
As per legends, Holi also celebrates Lord Krishna and his admiration for Radha. The pranks and fun exchange Lord Krishna had with Radha and other gopis.
Holi 2026: Traditional Foods
Holi is a vibrant festival. And, it only gets better with sweets and bhang. Can we call it Holi without gujiya and bhang? A tall glass of thandai with gooey gujiyas only makes it all the more interesting.
Happy Holi Wishes
- May this Holi end all negativities of life and enhance the positive energies. Happy Holi!
- May this festival of colours bring more cheerful colors in your life! ― Happy Holi!
- All the colours of Holi remind me of your smile. I hope you will enjoy this Holi with a smile. ― Happy Holi!
- If wishes come in rainbow colors then I would send the brightest one to say Happy Holi.
- I wish that colours of romance and love, colours of happiness and joy, colours of smiles and affection get deeper and darker with each and every day of our lives. Happy Holi!
- Festivals are the founders of Love and Joy, friends are the real ones to make this day as a great memory. I’m one of them! Happy Holi My friend!
- Just like a red rose that fills the world with beauty & fragrance. You have made my life so beautiful by being in it. On Holi, the festival of colors & joy I wanna say thank you for all the love & smiles you’ve brought to my life. ― Happy Holi!
- Splash in the colours of fun…Enjoy the delicious treats. May your life bloom with joy. On this delightful occasion. Happy Holi!
- Peace from white, Power from red, Knowledge from yellow, Development from green, Love from pink. May this Holi add all colors in your life.
- Holi is the festival of colours. I wish with all my heart that it brings more colours to your life. ― Wishing you and your family a fabulous Holi.!
Holi 2026: FAQs
When is Holi in 2026?
Holi will be celebrated on March 4 this year.
What do you eat on Holi?
People enjoy thandai and gujiyas.
