Narasimha Dwadashi Significance: According to the Panchang, the Dwadashi date of Shukla Paksha of Phalgun month is celebrated as Narasimha Dwadashi. This day is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, the most fierce and powerful incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This fast, which falls just a few days before Holi, is not only important from the religious point of view, but also prepares the way for Holi, the celebration of the victory of good over evil. Let us know when is Narasimha Dwadashi in the year 2026 and what is its relation with devotee Prahlad and Holi.
When will Narasimha Dwadashi fast be observed in 2026?
According to the Panchang, in the year 2026, Narasimha Dwadashi fast will be observed on 28 February, the Dwadashi date of Phalgun Shukla Paksha. This date falls a few days before Holika Dahan, hence it is also linked to the holy festival of Holi.
What is the connection with devotee Prahlad?
Narasimha Dwadashi is directly related to Vishnu devotee Prahlad. According to the Puranas, Prahlad was the son of the demon king Hiranyakashyap. Hiranyakashipu considered himself God and wanted everyone to worship him. But Prahlad was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu since childhood. Enraged by his son’s devotion, Hiranyakashipu tried to kill Prahlad several times, but every time Lord Vishnu protected him.
At last, when Hiranyakashyap kicked a pillar and asked whether your God is also in it, then Lord Narasimha appeared from the same pillar and in the evening, at the threshold of the door, neither in human nor animal form, neither inside nor outside, neither day nor night, killed the demon king amidst the conditions of such boons. This incident is seen as the victory of religion over unrighteousness. This story later also gets connected with Holika Dahan and Holi festival.
Why does this fast come before Holi?
In the month of Phalgun, first Narasimha Dwadashi and then Holika Dahan comes. Actually, the basic message of Holi is the victory of devotion and truth. Narasimha Dwadashi reminds the story of protection of the same devotion. While Holika Dahan symbolizes the end of ego and oppression, Narasimha Dwadashi reminds us of the form of God who took a fierce incarnation to protect the devotee.
How to observe Narasimha Dwadashi fast?
Take bath and wear clean clothes. Install the idol or picture of Lord Vishnu and Lord Narasimha. Offer yellow flowers, sandalwood, incense and lamp. Recite Vishnu Sahasranama or Narasimha Stotra. Keep fast throughout the day and eat fruits after Aarti in the evening. There is a religious belief that worshiping with a true heart on this day destroys negative energy and brings happiness and peace in the house.
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Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.