Holika Dahan 2024: Festivities Begin with Choti Holi Celebration

On the eve of the vibrant festival of Holi, communities across India are gearing up for the traditional celebration of Choti Holi or Holika Dahan on Sunday, March 24. This auspicious occasion symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and holds significant cultural importance.

Holika Dahan, also referred to as Choti Holi, involves the ritualistic lighting of a bonfire at night. This bonfire holds great mythological significance in Hindu traditions and is a symbolic gesture to ward off negative energies and embrace positivity.

According to ancient Hindu mythologies, Holika Dahan commemorates the tale of the demoness Holika who perished in flames when her attempt to harm Prahlad, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, backfired. Holika was the sister of the demon king Hiranyakashipu, who met his end at the hands of Lord Vishnu in his Narsimha avatar.