- By James Kuanal
- Wed, 04 Mar 2020 06:09 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
New Delhi | Jagran Lifestyle Desk: Holashtak in an inauspicious period ahead of the colourful festival of Holi. As per Hindu calendar, Holashtak starts on Ashtami of Shukla Paksa and continues till Purnima of Falgun and is observed during mid-February to mid-March according to the Gregorian calendar. The phase has already begun on March 3 and it will continue till March 9.
Holashtak is predominantly observed in North Indian states such as Bihar, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, among others. The custom isn’t followed in all parts of the country.
It is believed that Kamdev distracted Lord Shiva during his penance with his Prem Baan during this phase. After getting angry at the entire incident, Lord Shiva opened his third eye and burnt Kamdev to ashes. After this incidence, Rati- wife of Kamdev-- performed eight days penance to revive her husband. Pleased by her efforts, Shiva brought back Kamdev to life once again. The 8 days penance period is considered inauspicious.
Do's
Decorate branch of trees using colourful pieces of cloth and bury it under ground as it is believed that threads absorb negative energies and protect us.
Collect some wood stick, which will absorb the negative energies, burn these wood on Holika Dahan.
Donate food, clothes, money to the needy. It will bring you luck.
Clean your house using Gangajal. It will remove negative energy.
This is an excellent phase to meditate. It will help you attain wishes and goals like never before.
Chant Katyayani Mantra to find a better groom for your daughter.
If someone passes away, ‘Shanti Kriya' should be performed before the last rites.
Don'ts:
Marriage is considered unfavourable during Holashtak.
Moving into a new house, office might bring problems.
Naming a newborn or any important rituals are avoided during this period.
During Holashtak, one should avoid starting any new business or new work.
Newly married women should not live with in-laws during this unfavourable phase.
