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Holashtak 2024: The time span from Phalgun Shukla Ashtami to Phalgun Purnima is symbolised by Holashtak. No auspicious work is performed during this period. The eight days leading up to Holi, known as Hola Ashtak, are devoid of any auspicious and Manglik activities. The festival of Holi arrives as the Holashtak festival begins. There is particular significance to the eight days in Holashtak. All auspicious tasks, such as marriage, entering a new home, starting a new venture etc. are not carried out during these eight days.

This year, Holakshtak began on 17th March 2024 and will last till 24th March.. 

Holashtak 2024: Start And End Date 

Holashtak 2024 Start Date - 17th March 2024, Monday

Holashtak 2024 End Date - 24th March 2024, Tuesday 

Holika Dahan marks the end of Holashtak.

Every year, Holashtak are marked 8 days before the Holi celebration takes place. (Image Source: Canva)

Why No Auspicious Tasks Are Performed During Holashtak? 

No auspicious muhurat takes place during Holashtak. According to Hindu legends, the king of demons, Hiraikashyapa, allegedly advises his son Prahlada not to worship Lord Shri Vishnu. Prahlada continues to worship Vishnu fervently despite his father's disapproval. This makes Hiraikashyapa angry. For eight days, starting on Ashtami of the Shukla Paksha of the Phalgun month and ending on Purnima, he torments Prahlada in various ways. He attempts to murder his own son as well. Prahlad is constantly protected, nevertheless, due of his unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu.

The task of killing Prahlad was given to his sister Holika by Hiranyakaship on the eighth day, or Phalgun Purnima. Holika was endowed with protection against fire. Holika sits in front of the fire with Prahlad on her lap. However, Lord Shri Vishnu rescues his devotee once more. Prahlad escapes the fire unscathed, but Holika perishes in it. 


Because of this, the eight days leading up to Holika Dahan are referred to as Holashtak and are not considered as auspicious days. It is also believed that Holashtak began the day when Lord Shri Bhole Nath, in a fit of wrath, destroyed Kama Dev. 

Holakshtak 2024: Which Sanskaras Must Not Be Performed During This Inauspicious Period 

According to Hindu traditions, Holashtak is a time when neither auspicious activities nor the sixteen Sanskaras are performed. It is believed that even if a person's death rites are to be conducted on this day, Shanti Puja must be performed beforehand. Only then may the final rites be performed. 

ALSO READ: Kharmas 2024: Start And End Date; Why Not To Perform Auspicious Work During This Month

Holashtak is believed to be a good time for devotion or meditation. It is believed that now is the best time for transformation. Snaan and Daan rituals can also be performed during Holashtak. 


(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert from the relevant field.)