Holika Dahan 2026: Why are four cowdung cakes essential for the Holika Dahan ritual? A small tradition holds a big secret.

News Topical, Digital Desk : In Hinduism, the festival of Holi is considered a festival of joy and new enthusiasm. This year, Holi will be celebrated with colors on March 3rd, but the Holika Dahan ceremony, which takes place before that on the evening of March 2nd, is very special. We not only burn wood in the Holika fire, but also bid farewell to the evils and negativity within us. Cow dung cakes or 'barkul' (wood cakes) made from cow dung hold special significance on this day.

Elders often ask us to set aside four cow dung cakes before burning Holika. There are profound religious reasons behind this, directly linked to the well-being and safety of our families.

The importance of four cow dung cakes and the blessings of ancestors

According to scriptures, these four cow dung cakes taken out during Holika Dahan are dedicated to different purposes. The first of these cow dung cakes is dedicated to our ancestors. It is believed that receiving the blessings of our ancestors brings peace and happiness to the home and reduces the risk of any kind of ancestral curse.

When we reverently remember our ancestors, this upla is a simple way to show respect to them. It removes obstacles to family functioning and brings peace of mind to the family members. 

Hanuman and protection from negative forces

The second upla is taken out in the name of Sankatmochan Hanumanji. Worshiping him on the day of Holika Dahan reduces the risk of any evil eye affecting the home. It is believed that taking out upla in the name of Hanumanji creates a protective shield around the home, eliminating the fear of negative forces entering.

This small act fills us with courage and strengthens our mental strength. Our elders always teach that this ritual, performed with true faith, helps protect us from future dangers. It also infuses new and positive energy into the home environment.

Special blessings of Sheetla Mata and Goddess Lakshmi

The third Upla is taken out in the name of Shitala Mata, and the fourth in the name of Goddess Lakshmi. Shitala Mata is considered a goddess who protects against diseases. During Holi, when the weather changes, the risk of contracting diseases increases. In such a situation, Shitala Mata's blessings help keep us healthy. Meanwhile, the Upla in the name of Goddess Lakshmi is taken out to bring wealth and prosperity to the home.

This puja teaches us that whatever we do should be for the good of our family and society. When we follow these traditions to seek the Mother's blessings, all of life's greatest desires are fulfilled.

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