Holi is a two-day Hindu celebration, the Festival of Colors, falling on March 3rd & 4th in 2026. Holika Dahan – (burning of Holika) (Chhoti Holi / Bonfire Night), on Tuesday evening has a religious purpose, symbolically signifying the triumph of good over evil as people gather near bonfires, singing, dancing and celebrating the legend of Holika, the sister of the demon king Hiranyakashipu and the aunt of Prahlada, a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu. Hiranyakashipu, nearly invincible, demanded that everyone in his kingdom worship him instead of the gods, particularly Lord Vishnu. However, his son Prahlada defied him, remaining devoted to Vishnu, which infuriated Hiranyakashipu.
In a desperate attempt to kill his son, Hiranyakashipu instructed Holika, who was immune to fire, to sit in a blazing fire with Prahlada in her lap, believing that she would be unharmed while her nephew, his son, perished. As the fire blazed, Holika’s immunity failed her, and she was burned to ashes, while Prahlada emerged unscathed, protected by his unwavering faith in Lord Vishnu.
Rangwali Holi / Color Festival is the main day of the Holi celebration, when people play with colors, water, music, festive food and sweets exhibiting love, hope, rebirth, and heavenly favors. Revelers embrace happiness, let go of the past, and share life’s celebrations with others. Holi marks the end of winter season and the arrival of spring season, which brings new life. It’s a time for fresh starts and rebirth. Social barriers are broken down as people of all ages, genders, castes, creeds, religions, and origins come together to celebrate Holi with colors of the Gulal (vibrant powders).
The festival is based on the Hindu lunar calendar, specifically the full moon day (Phalguna Purnima), which determines the timing of Holika Dahan and Rangwali Holi.