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Holashtak 2026 begins February 24 and ends March 3. Before Holi celebrations, this eight-day period is observed, and certain activities are traditionally avoided.
Holashtak is linked closely to the festival of Holi. The word itself comes from “Holi” and “Ashtak,” which means eight. (Image: Shutterstock)
Holashtak 2026 Start And End Date: Holi is one of the most widely celebrated Hindu festivals in India. Before the colours and celebrations begin, there is an important eight-day period known as Holashtak. Many people believe these days are not suitable for starting anything new.
Holashtak begins on the Ashtami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Phalgun and ends on the Purnima Tithi on the day of Holika Dahan. In 2026, this period will start on February 24 and conclude on March 3.
Holashtak 2026: Start And End Date Along With Time
As per Drik Panchang, Holika Dahan will be observed on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. The muhurta for Holika Dahan is from 06:22 PM to 08:50 PM. The duration is 2 hours and 28 minutes.
Rangwali Holi will be celebrated on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Meanwhile, Bhadra Punchha will be from 01:25 AM to 02:35 AM, and Bhadra Mukha will be from 02:35 AM to 04:30 AM.
Purnima Tithi will begin at 05:55 PM on March 2, 2026, and end at 05:07 PM on March 3, 2026. Holika Dahan will take place during Pradosh without Udaya Vyapini Purnima.
Holashtak 2026: Significance
Holashtak is linked closely to the festival of Holi. The word itself comes from “Holi” and “Ashtak,” which means eight. These eight days are believed to be inauspicious for doing any major or happy events like marriage or starting a new job.
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According to astrology, certain planetary positions during this time are said to create unstable energy. Because of this, people avoid making big decisions. Instead, they focus on prayer and spiritual activities.
This period is also connected to the story of Bhakta Prahalad and Lord Vishnu. Holika Dahan marks the victory of good over evil. The preparation for the Holika bonfire begins during Holashtak.
Many people use this time for self-reflection and devotion. It is seen as a chance to clean the mind and prepare for a fresh start with Holi.
Holashtak 2026 Rituals: Dos and Don’ts
What is allowed
- Time For Prayer And Chanting: People are encouraged to take part in religious activities such as offering prayers, chanting mantras, and meditating. These practices are believed to reduce negative energy and lessen the bad effects of planets.
- Control Anger And Negative Thoughts: People should control their anger, avoid negative thoughts, and speak politely. Some also observe celibacy during this time.
- Seek the Blessings of Lord Vishnu And Narasimha: Devotees are advised to worship Lord Vishnu during these days. They can recite Vishnu Sahastranama, Vishnu mantras, and Shri Hari Stotra, and seek blessings just as Bhakta Prahalad worshipped Lord Vishnu with pure devotion.
- Practice Charity And Kindness: Giving food, clothes, or money to the needy is considered very good during this period. Feeding the poor, helping animals, and doing acts of kindness are believed to attract good fortune.
Don’ts
- Avoid Starting Important Events: It is advised not to get married, buy a house, perform Griha Pravesh, start a new job or business, or conduct rituals like Upanayanam during these days.
- Avoid Touching Unknown Items Outside: People are advised not to touch unknown or suspicious items left outside, especially at crossroads, as they are believed to carry negative energy.
- Avoid Cutting Hair And Nails: According to traditional beliefs, one should not cut hair or nails during Holashtak.
- Delay Purchasing New Clothes And Shoes: Shopping for new clothes, shoes, gold, silver, or any kind of jewellery is discouraged during these eight days.
- Do Not Perform Graha Shanti Rituals: Graha Shanti Pujas should be avoided because they are based on planetary positions, and this period is not considered suitable for such ceremonies.
February 24, 2026, 07:05 IST