Choti Holi 2024: Date , Puja Vidhi, Samagri:
Choti Holi 2024, also known as Holika Dahan or Small Holi, is celebrated as the eve of the grand festival of Holi in India. It falls on the full moon night (Purnima) of the Hindu lunar month of Phalguna, which typically occurs in February or March according to the Gregorian calendar. In 2024, Choti Holi 2024 falls on March 28th.
History and Significance:
The festival of Holi has deep-rooted historical and mythological significance in Hindu culture. Choti Holi commemorates the victory of good over evil, symbolized by the triumph of Prahlad, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, over his demoness aunt Holika.
According to Hindu mythology, Holika, the sister of demon king Hiranyakashipu, tried to kill Prahlad by sitting with him in a pyre as she had a boon of being immune to fire. However, due to Prahlad’s unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu, he emerged unscathed from the fire, while Holika was burnt to ashes. This event signifies the victory of righteousness over malevolence.
Choti Holi 2024: Holi, the Celebration Of Tones, is one of the most propitious celebrations of the Hindu religion after Diwali. It praises the everlasting adoration and dedication among Radha and Ruler Krishna. A day prior Rangowali Holi, Hindus mark the celebration of Choti Holi or Holika Dahan. It is a huge day as it recognizes the triumph of good over evil. The festivals start on the prior night Holi, with individuals gathering outside their homes with family members, companions and local area individuals to light the Holika huge fire. It is an indication of the triumph of light over dimness, great over malevolence, and bliss over distress. To praise the celebration, you should know its right date, history, importance, city-wise muhurat, puja vidhi, samagri, and that’s only the tip of the iceberg.
Choti Holi 2024 Date: When is Holika Dahan; Shubh Muhurat
This year, Choti Holi or Holika Dahan falls on Walk 24. In the mean time, Holi falls a day after on Walk 25. The Holika Dahan muhurat will start at 11:13 pm on Walk 24 and end at 12:27 am on Walk 25. The muhurat will keep going for 1 hour and 14 minutes.
Bhadra Punch is from 6:33 pm to 7:53 pm
Bhadra Mukh is from 7:53 pm to 10:06 pm
Purnima Tithi starts at 9:54 am on Walk 24
Purnima Tithi Closures at 12:29 pm on Walk 25
Holika Dahan Muhurat:
Holika Dahan, or the bonfire ritual, is performed on the evening of Choti Holi. The timing for the ritual is crucial and is determined based on the Hindu calendar and local traditions. Generally, the bonfire is lit during the auspicious period, which often coincides with Pradosh Kaal, the time just before sunset.
Puja Vidhi (Worship Procedure):
1. Preparing the Bonfire: A pyre is built using wood, cow dung cakes, and other combustible materials in an open space. People gather around the pyre to witness the ritual.
2. Offerings and Prayers: Before lighting the bonfire, offerings such as flowers, coconut, sweets, and grains are placed near the pyre. Devotees offer prayers to Lord Vishnu and seek his blessings for prosperity and protection.
3. Lighting the Bonfire: The eldest member of the family or a priest performs the ceremonial lighting of the bonfire. Mantras and hymns are chanted while the fire is lit, invoking the divine energies to purify the surroundings and ward off evil.
4. Circumambulation (Parikrama): People perform a circumambulation around the bonfire, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and seeking blessings for a harmonious life.
5. Holika Dahan Ritual: Effigies of Holika, often made of straw and wood, are placed atop the pyre. The bonfire consumes the effigies, signifying the destruction of evil forces.
6. Celebrations: Following the ritual, people celebrate
Samagri (Materials Required):
– Wood, cow dung cakes, and other combustible materials for the bonfire
– Puja items such as flowers, coconut, sweets, grains, and incense sticks
– Effigies of Holika
– Holi colors (gulal) for celebrations
Choti Holi sets the stage for the joyous festivities of Holi, where people come together to celebrate the spirit of love, unity, and forgiveness. It is a time for merrymaking, strengthening bonds, and rejoicing in the victory of righteousness.