Are You Pregnant, Newly Married Or Have Just Shifted To New Home? Know Why You Shouldn't Watch Holika Dahan

Happy Holi 2025 : India is a land of festivals, with every season bringing joyful celebrations that align with the season. As we embrace spring, it ushers in the festival of Holi , a celebration as vibrant as the season itself.

Based on the full moon (Purnima) of the Phalguna month, Holi will be celebrated this year on Friday, March 14 and Holika Dahan on Thursday, March 13.

Also read: Expert-Approved Skin And Hair Care Tips For A Safe Holi

What is Holika Dahan?

Holika Dahan also known as Choti Holi or Holika Deepak is a part of the Holi festival which symbolises the victory of good over evil. 

According to Drik Panchang, the eve of Holi is marked by a burning bonfire to the start of Holika Dahan, which falls on March 13 this year, symbolizing the official beginning of the Holi festivities. A Hindu scripture states the Pradosh Kaal must begin after sunset while the Purnimasi Tithi is prevailing. Thus, the Holika Dahan Muhurta is set from 11:26 PM to 12:30 AM (midnight), leading into March 14.

Know why you shouldn't watch Holika Dahan

Although Holi is a vibrant and joyous festival, traditional beliefs suggest that certain individuals should avoid witnessing the Holika bonfire, as it may have adverse effects on them.

If you fall into any of these categories, exercise caution:

• Pregnant women: Watching Holika Dahan is believed to be harmful to both the mother and the unborn child.
• Newly married women: They are advised to refrain from participating, as it may bring obstacles to their marriage.
• Newborn babies: Keep infants away from the bonfire, as it poses health risks.
• Mother-in-law and daughter-in-law: Tradition warns that witnessing the burning fire together, which symbolizes a woman, could strain their relationship.
• Couples with a single child and new homeowners: They are advised to avoid Holika Dahan, as it is believed to bring bad luck.