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News Topical, Digital Desk : The festival of Holi is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Hinduism, but exactly eight days before Holi, 'Holashtak' begins. This year, Holashtak will begin on February 25, 2026, and end with Holika Dahan on March 3, 2026. According to astrology, any auspicious or auspicious work is prohibited during these eight days. Holashtak begins on the Ashtami date of the Shukla Paksha of the month of Phalgun and ends with Holika Dahan.
It is believed that the planets are quite aggressive during this period, making any endeavor undertaken during this time uncertain about its success. So, let's explore why auspicious activities are prohibited during these eight days.
Meaning and mythology of Holashtak
The word "Holashtak" is made up of two words: Holi and Ashtak, meaning eight days of Holi. According to mythology, it was during these eight days that the devotee Prahlad was subjected to severe torture by his father Hiranyakashipu. Every effort was made to dissuade Prahlad from his devotion to Lord Vishnu, and on the eighth day, he was placed in the lap of Holika to be consumed by flames.
Because these eight days were filled with intense suffering and pain for the devotee Prahlad, they are considered inauspicious in Hindu tradition. This time is considered auspicious for devotion and penance, but is considered inauspicious for any new or happy beginning.
The fierceness of the planets and astrological reasons
According to astrology, during Holashtak, major planets like the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, and Rahu are in a fiery state. It is believed that the Moon is particularly fierce on Ashtami, the Sun on Navami, Saturn on Dashami, Jupiter on Ekadashi, Venus on Dwadashi, Mercury on Trayodashi, and Mars on Chaturdashi. This planetary position can impact a person's decision-making abilities and create mental unrest. For this reason, important events like marriage, tonsure, housewarming, or business inaugurations are postponed during this time to avoid negative consequences.
Do's and Don'ts
During Holashtak, one should avoid purchasing a new home, performing wedding ceremonies, or making any major investments. Auspicious events like naming ceremonies or engagement ceremonies are also not performed during this time. However, this time is considered highly fruitful for mantra meditation and devotion to God. The more you chant God's name during Holashtak, the more mental peace you will attain. Charity during these days is highly auspicious, especially donating grains and clothes to the needy helps remove negativity from the home. This time is excellent for introspection and purifying one's inner energy.
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