Date, background, and significance of Holika Dahan on Choti Holi 2023

Choti Holi, also known as Holika Dahan, is a colourful and joyous celebration that brings people together for worship, fellowship, and merriment. This holiday is rich in symbolism and meaning, with bonfires representing the triumph of good over evil and the burning of Holika symbolising the victory of devotion over wickedness. Choti Holi is a time for excitement and celebration, so join in the fun, splash some colour, and indulge in some delicious treats! India will celebrate Choti Holi on March 7.

Background of Choti Holi

Choti Holi has deep roots in Hindu mythology and history. The tale of Choti Holi centres around the demon king Hiranyakashyap and his son Prahlad, who was a follower of Lord Vishnu. Hiranyakashyap was a dictator who demanded that everyone worship him as he believed himself to be the most powerful being in the universe. Despite being told to stop, Prahlad continued to worship Lord Vishnu, which made his father furious.

When Hiranyakashyap decided to kill his son, he enlisted the help of Holika, his sister who was immune to fire. Holika tricked Prahlad into joining her on a pyre so that they both would burn to death. However, to everyone's surprise, Holika was the one who was reduced to ashes while Prahlad emerged unscathed. This event, which is commemorated as Choti Holi, symbolises the triumph of good over evil.

Significance of Holika Dahan

This holiday is closely associated with the victory of devotion over wickedness and the triumph of virtue over evil. The bonfires that are lit on this day symbolise the burning of the demon Holika, who was killed while attempting to kill Prahlad, a follower of Lord Vishnu. Holika's demise represents the victory of good over evil and of virtue over sin. Holika Dahan also marks the arrival of spring and the end of the winter season. People gather during this time to socialise and have fun. Holika Dahan has ecological value as well as religious and cultural significance. Bonfires are lit on this day using dried leaves and twigs to purify the environment and ward off disease.