📅 Holi 2026 Date
& Calendar
In 2026, Holi will be celebrated on:
- 🔥 Holika Dahan (Chhoti Holi): March 2, 2026 (Monday)
- 🎨 Rangwali Holi (Dhulandi): March 3, 2026 (Tuesday)
Holi is observed on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month
Phalguna.
Note: Dates may slightly vary depending on regional Panchang (Hindu
calendar).
❓ Why Is Holi
Celebrated?
Holi has deep mythological, cultural, and seasonal significance.
🕉️ The Story Behind
Holi (Prahlad & Holika)
According to Hindu mythology:
- King Hiranyakashipu wanted
everyone to worship him.
- His son Prahlad was devoted to
Lord Vishnu.
- The king’s sister Holika tried to
burn Prahlad in fire.
- Prahlad survived due to divine
protection, while Holika was burned.
This symbolizes:
- Victory of good over evil
- Faith over arrogance
- Truth over injustice
🎨 Connection with
Lord Krishna
Holi is also associated with Lord Krishna and Radha.
In Vrindavan and Barsana, Holi is celebrated in a grand
way, reflecting Krishna’s playful nature.
Famous celebrations include:
- Lathmar Holi (Barsana)
- Phoolon Ki Holi (Vrindavan)
🔥 Holika Dahan
Rituals (March 2, 2026)
Holika Dahan is performed in the evening.
Traditional Rituals:
- Bonfire is prepared with wood and
cow dung cakes.
- Idol or symbolic figure of Holika
is placed.
- Devotees perform Parikrama
(circling the fire).
- Offerings like coconut, wheat,
and grains are made.
- Prayers are offered for
protection and prosperity.
Spiritual Meaning:
The bonfire represents burning negativity, ego, and evil energies.
🎉 Rangwali Holi
Rituals (March 3, 2026)
The next day is the colorful celebration.
How People Celebrate:
- Apply gulal (colored powder)
- Splash water and play with colors
- Dance to Holi songs
- Visit friends and family
- Share sweets and festive drinks
🍬 Traditional Holi
Foods
Popular Holi delicacies include:
- Gujiya
- Thandai
- Dahi Bhalla
- Malpua
- Puran Poli
These sweets add festive flavor to the celebration.
🌍 Holi Celebration in
Different Parts of India
📍 Mathura & Vrindavan
Week-long celebrations with temple rituals and Krishna-themed events.
📍 Jaipur
Royal-style Holi with cultural performances.
📍 Anandpur Sahib
Celebrated as Hola Mohalla, featuring martial arts and Sikh
traditions.
📍 Kolkata
Known as Dol Jatra or Basanta Utsav, emphasizing art and music.
🌸 Cultural &
Social Importance of Holi
Holi encourages:
- Forgiveness and fresh beginnings
- Strengthening relationships
- Breaking social barriers
- Community bonding
It is one of the few festivals celebrated across religions and
communities.
🛡️ Holi Safety Tips
- Use organic and natural colors
- Apply oil on hair and skin before
playing
- Avoid harmful chemical colors
- Protect your eyes
- Stay hydrated
💰 Economic Impact of
Holi
Holi boosts:
- Sweet and food sales
- Tourism in cities like Vrindavan
and Mathura
- Event management industry
- Temporary employment
opportunities
✨ Spiritual
Significance
Holi night (Holika Dahan) is considered powerful for:
- Removing negative energy
- Starting new ventures
- Performing spiritual remedies