Holika Dahan 2026: This year many devotees are confused about when to celebrate Holika Dahan in 2026. The reason is that Purnima Tithi is falling on both March 2 and March 3. On top of that the first lunar eclipse of 2026 will also happen on March 3. Because of Bhadra Kaal, Pradosh Kaal and Sutak timing people want to know the correct and holy time according to Hindu scriptures.
As per the Hindu calendar, Phalguna Purnima will start on March 2, 2026 at 5:56 PM. It will end on March 3, 2026 at 5:08 PM. Since Purnima is present on both days many people are unsure which date is correct for Holika Dahan. Traditionally the ritual must be done on Purnima during Pradosh Kaal and it should not be during Bhadra.
Bhadra and Correct Muhurat for Holika Dahan
Bhadra will begin on March 2 at 5:55 PM and will end on March 3 at 5:28 AM. The most inauspicious part called Bhadra Mukha starts on March 2 at 2:38 AM and ends on March 3 at 5:32 AM. Religious texts say Holika Dahan should not be done during Bhadra Mukha.
Since Bhadra Mukha falls late at night, devotees can safely perform Holika Dahan in the evening during Pradosh Kaal on March 2. Based on the Panchang calculation, the Shubh Muhurat for Holika Dahan in 2026 is between 6:22 PM and 8:53 PM on March 2. This time is considered proper and as per scriptures.
Lunar Eclipse on March 3 and Sutak Kaal
The matter becomes more serious because a lunar eclipse will also take place on March 3. The eclipse will begin at 3:20 PM IST. In India the Blood Moon will be visible from 6:26 PM to 6:46 PM IST and it will last for around 20 minutes. During this time the Moon may look red in colour which people call a Blood Moon.
Since the eclipse will be visible in India Sutak Kaal will be followed. For the general public Sutak will begin at 9:39 AM on March 3 and will end at 6:46 PM when the eclipse finishes. For children elderly people and pregnant women Sutak will begin later at 3:28 PM. During Sutak religious activities are usually avoided.
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Because of the eclipse and Sutak timing March 3 is not considered suitable for Holika Dahan.
Rangwali Holi also known as Dhulandi will be celebrated on March 4, 2026 which is Wednesday. On this day people will play with colours apply gulal and celebrate together. It marks the victory of good over evil and brings happiness across the country.
