March 3, 2026 • Tuesday
Purnima, Phalguna Month
Date
March 3, 2026
Tithi
Purnima, Phalguna Month
Muhurat
Holika Dahan Muhurat: March 2, 2026 — 11:26 PM to 12:32 AM (IST)
Holi 2026 falls on March 3rd (Tuesday) on the Purnima of Phalguna month. Known as the Festival of Colours, Holi marks the victory of devotee Prahlad over the demoness Holika — symbolizing the triumph of devotion and good over evil. The celebrations begin with Holika Dahan (bonfire) on the evening of March 2nd, followed by Rangwali Holi (colour play) on March 3rd. It also celebrates the eternal love of Radha and Krishna.
Sacred bonfire lit at an auspicious muhurat after sunset. Devotees circumambulate the fire and offer coconut, wheat stalks, and flowers. Symbolizes burning of evil.
Festival of colours. Play with gulal, pichkari, and water. Visit family and friends. Exchange sweets and thandai.
Main Holi day in North India. Apply colours from morning. Visit elders in the evening after bathing.
Holi 2026 (Rangwali Holi) falls on March 3rd, Tuesday. Holika Dahan is on March 2nd evening with muhurat at 11:26 PM.
The Holika Dahan muhurat for 2026 is March 2nd at 11:26 PM to 12:32 AM (midnight). The fire must be lit within this window for maximum auspiciousness.
Natural colours made from flowers are safest — gulal from rose petals (pink), turmeric (yellow), neem powder (green), and indigo (blue). Avoid synthetic chemical colours as they contain heavy metals and can cause skin and eye damage.
It is advisable to avoid chemical colours during pregnancy. If you wish to participate, use only organic natural colours, avoid being in large crowds, and don't play in cold water. Consult your doctor for personalized guidance.
Holika Dahan commemorates the story of Prahlad, a Vishnu devotee, and his demon aunt Holika who tried to burn him in her lap using her fire-immunity boon. By divine grace, Prahlad survived and Holika burned — proving that true devotion protects. The bonfire symbolizes burning away evil and negativity.
Ask Pandit Shivananda for puja guidance and spiritual advice.