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Real story of Holi 2026: Holi, known as the festival of colours, begins not with gulal and laughter but with a sacred fire, Holika Dahan. This ritual symbolises the burning away of negativity and reminds us of an ancient legend that continues to guide millions even today.
At the centre of this tradition lies the story of unwavering devotion and divine protection.
The Legend Of Bhakt Prahlad: A Child’s Unshakable Faith
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According to Hindu scriptures, Prahlad was the son of the powerful demon king Hiranyakashipu. Despite being born into a family that opposed the gods, Prahlad became a devoted follower of Vishnu from a very young age.
Hiranyakashipu, blinded by arrogance and power, wanted everyone to worship him as a god. But Prahlad refused, choosing faith over fear. The king saw this as betrayal and tried repeatedly to punish and even kill his own son, but every attempt failed, as divine grace protected the child.
Prahlad’s story teaches that true belief cannot be shaken by external pressure, no matter how powerful the opposition.
When is Holi 2026?
This year, Holi will be celebrated on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Here are the auspicious timings as per Drik Panchang:
Holika Dahan on Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Purnima Tithi Begins – 05:55 PM on Mar 02, 2026
Purnima Tithi Ends – 05:07 PM on Mar 03, 2026
Who Was Holika And Why Is Holika Dahan Observed?
Frustrated by Prahlad’s devotion to Lord Vishnu, Hiranyakashipu sought help from his sister Holika, who possessed a magical boon that made her immune to fire. A plan was devised: Holika would sit in a blazing pyre with Prahlad in her lap, expecting the flames to kill him while she remained unharmed.
But divine justice had other plans.
Holika’s powers worked only when she entered fire alone. Because she misused her gift for evil, the protection failed. She was consumed by the flames, while Prahlad emerged unharmed, saved by his faith.
This moment is commemorated as Holika Dahan, symbolising the destruction of ego, cruelty, and negativity.
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The Deeper Meaning Behind The Fire
Holika Dahan is not merely a ritual, it is a spiritual metaphor:
The fire represents the burning of अहंकार (ego) and evil intentions.
Prahlad symbolises faith, purity, and resilience.
Holika represents misuse of power and the consequences of arrogance.
The event reminds us that truth and devotion ultimately triumph.
On the night before Holi, families gather around the bonfire, offer prayers, and perform parikrama (circumambulation), seeking protection from negativity and welcoming renewal.
The Connection Between Holika Dahan And The Colours Of Holi
The next day’s vibrant celebrations are not random, they mark joy after victory. Just as Prahlad’s survival brought hope and happiness, people celebrate with colours to express unity, forgiveness, and the arrival of positivity.
Holi, therefore, is a two-part festival:
1. Holika Dahan: Letting go of darkness.
2. Rangwali Holi: Embracing life, joy, and togetherness.
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What This Story Teaches Us Even Today
In modern life, the legend of Prahlad still resonates deeply. It reminds us:
1. Stand firm in what is right, even when it is difficult.
2. Power without humility leads to downfall.
3. Faith and goodness are stronger than fear.
4. Every end of negativity makes way for a new beginning.
Holi is not only about playing with colours, it is about inner cleansing, forgiveness, and celebrating the triumph of hope.
(This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)
