Holika Dahan, also known as Holika bonfire, is a Hindu festival celebrated primarily in India. It marks the victory of good over evil and the onset of spring. Holika Dahan is observed on the night before Holi, another popular Hindu festival known as the festival of colors.
During Holika Dahan, people gather wood and other combustible materials in open spaces. A pyre is built, symbolizing the burning of the demoness Holika, who, according to Hindu mythology, was killed by Lord Vishnu’s devotee Prahlad. Holika had a boon that made her immune to fire, but through Lord Vishnu’s grace, Prahlad remained unharmed while Holika burned. This event signifies the triumph of devotion and righteousness over malevolence.
Before lighting the pyre, rituals are performed which often include prayers, offerings, and circling the fire. People also sing and dance around the fire, celebrating the victory of good over evil and welcoming the arrival of spring.
Holika Dahan holds cultural significance and is celebrated with much enthusiasm across India, with variations in rituals and traditions in different regions.
