Rules of Holashtak: The days of Holashtak begin eight days before Holi. After this, Holashtak ends with Holika Dahan. Holashtak is considered to be that inauspicious period of eight days when demon king Hiranyakashyap tortured his son and great devotee of Lord Vishnu, Prahlad. According to religious beliefs, the hardships faced by Prahlad are called Holashtak. Despite Holashkat being inauspicious, it is considered to have special importance in Sanatan Dharma. Holashk starts every year from the Ashtami date of Shukla Paksha of Phalgun month.
This year, the inauspicious days of Holashtak are starting from tomorrow i.e. 24th February. It will conclude on the day of Holika Dahan i.e. 03 March. Auspicious and auspicious works are considered prohibited during the period of Holashtak. During this period, marriages, house warming, mundankaan, naming etc. are not done. It is believed that during Holashtak, evil powers and planets are in a furious state, hence auspicious works do not yield auspicious results during this period. In such a situation, let us know what to do and what not to do during the eight days of Holashtak.
What to do in Holashtak?
Make donations during the eight days of Holashtak. Do worship, chanting and penance. Worship Lord Vishnu and Shiva. Worship the family deities and recite debt redemption source, Vishnu Sahastranam, Hanuman Chalisa and Sri Sukta daily. During the days of Holashtak, offer prayers to your ancestors daily. Pay attention to them. For the peace of the planets, perform puja or yagya. If possible, circumambulate Mathura-Vrindavan at this time.
What not to do in Holashtak?
Do not marry during the days of Holashtak. Do not purchase land, buildings and vehicles etc. Newly married women should not stay in their in-laws’ house during this time. Do not perform any of the 16 rituals mentioned in Sanatan Dharma during Holashtak.
Also read: Holika Dahan 2026: Why are old household items and cakes offered in Holika fire? Know the secret behind this
Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.