Holi 2026 Date Confirmed: Holika Dahan on March 3, Rangawali Holi on March 4

As every year, confusion surrounds the exact date of Holi in 2026, with some calendars marking March 3 and others March 4. The variation arises due to the timing of Holika Dahan and the Hindu lunar calendar system. Here’s a detailed explanation of when Holi will be celebrated in 2026, the auspicious muhurta for Holika Dahan, and the cultural and mythological significance of this vibrant festival.

When Is Holi in 2026?

Holi in 2026 will be observed over two days:

• Holika Dahan: March 3, 2026

• Rangawali Holi (Dhulandi): March 4, 2026

According to Drik Panchang, the auspicious muhurta (ritual timing) for Holika Dahan on March 3 is from 6:22 pm to 8:50 pm.

The following day, March 4, will be celebrated as Rangawali Holi — also known as Dhulandi — when people gather to play with colours, exchange sweets, and celebrate together.

Why Does the Holi Date Change Every Year?

Unlike festivals fixed to the Gregorian calendar, Holi is determined by the Hindu lunar calendar. It falls on Purnima (full moon day) in the month of Phalguna.

Because the lunar calendar is shorter than the solar calendar by about 11 days annually, the dates shift each year when aligned with the Gregorian calendar. This is why Holi may fall in late February or March, depending on the lunar cycle.

The festival begins with Holika Dahan on the night of the full moon and concludes the next day with colour celebrations.

Holika Dahan: The Story Behind the Bonfire

Holika Dahan is rooted in ancient Hindu mythology and symbolises the triumph of good over evil.

The Legend of Prahlad and Holika

The ritual traces back to the story of Prahlad, a devoted follower of Vishnu, and his father, the demon king Hiranyakashipu.

Hiranyakashipu demanded that everyone worship him instead of Lord Vishnu. However, Prahlad remained steadfast in his devotion. Enraged, the king conspired with his sister, Holika, who possessed a boon that made her immune to fire.

Holika tricked Prahlad into sitting with her in a blazing fire, intending to kill him. However, due to divine intervention, Holika’s protective boon failed, and she was burned to ashes while Prahlad survived unharmed.

The Holika bonfire commemorates this event, representing the destruction of evil and the protection of righteousness.

Rangawali Holi: Festival of Colours

The day after Holika Dahan is Rangawali Holi, popularly known as Dhulandi. This is when streets across India burst into colour, music, and festivity.

People smear each other with coloured powders (gulal), splash water, dance to traditional songs, and share festive delicacies like gujiya and thandai. The celebration fosters unity, forgiveness, and joy.

Krishna, Radha and the Colour Tradition

Another popular legend associated with Holi involves Krishna and Radha.

According to folklore, young Krishna once expressed concern about his dark complexion compared to Radha’s fair skin. His mother, Yashoda, playfully suggested that he apply colour to Radha’s face.

This light-hearted act gradually evolved into the tradition of playing with colours during Holi. The story highlights themes of love, acceptance, and playful affection.

Mathura and Vrindavan: Grand Celebrations

Holi holds special significance in Mathura and Vrindavan, both closely associated with Krishna’s life.

Celebrations in these cities often extend for several days and include temple rituals, devotional songs, and large community gatherings. The festivities attract visitors from across India and abroad, creating a vibrant spiritual atmosphere.

Seasonal and Cultural Significance

Beyond mythology, Holi marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring. It celebrates renewal, fertility, and the blossoming of new life. Traditionally, it also signalled the beginning of a new agricultural cycle in many regions of India.

Today, Holi is observed not only in India but also in countries with significant Hindu communities worldwide. It has grown into a global cultural festival symbolising harmony, happiness, and the spirit of togetherness.

Conclusion

For 2026, Holika Dahan will take place on March 3, with Rangawali Holi celebrated on March 4. The annual date confusion arises from the lunar calendar system that determines the festival’s timing. Rooted in powerful legends and seasonal change, Holi continues to represent the victory of good over evil, the joy of colour, and the celebration of unity across communities.