• Source:JND

Holashtak 2025: The eight-day period before Holi is known as Holashtak. In North India, many Hindu communities consider this time unlucky. It starts on the eighth day of the bright moon phase and ends on the full moon day of the Falgun month. During Holashtak, people avoid important events like weddings and new business launches. Instead, they focus on spiritual growth and prepare for the joyful Holi celebrations. Holi marks the start of spring and the victory of good over evil and Holashtak is a time to reflect and get ready for the festivities.

Check out the start and end date of Holashtak in 2025 and learn about the essential guidelines to follow during this period. Find out what to do and what to avoid to easily navigate this inauspicious time.

Holashtak 2025: Start And End Date

- Holashtak 2025 Start Date: 7th March 2025, Friday

- Holashtak 2025 End Date: 13th March 2025, Thursday

Holashtak 2025: What To Do During This 8-Day Period

As Holashtak begins, people start decorating tree branches with vibrant clothes. They tie a piece of cloth to a branch and then bury it in the ground. In some communities, these clothes are burned during Holika Dahan, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Preparations for Holika Dahan also commence on the day of Phalgun Shukla Paksha Ashtami, which marks the start of Holashtak. Every day, small amounts of wood are collected and stored at the designated site. This process continues until the day of Holika Dahan.

Holashtak is considered an ideal time for charitable giving. People are encouraged to donate generously, offering clothes, food, money and other essentials according to their means. This act of kindness is believed to bring blessings and positivity. The nine-day Holi festival ultimately concludes on the day of 'Dhuleti'.

holashtak-2025

Holashtak is a significant period preceding Holi, promoting spiritual growth and self-reflection. (Image Source: Canva) 

Holashtak 2025: What Not To Do During This Period

During Holashtak, it's best to avoid significant life events and new beginnings. This includes 16 major ceremonies, such as weddings, engagements and naming ceremonies. It's also advisable to postpone buying new property, like a house, car or plot until after Holashtak.

Certain rituals and practices are also discouraged during this time. For instance, Yagya Havan should be avoided, but can be performed before or after Holi. Additionally, it's recommended to delay job changes or new job starts until after Holashtak.

Starting a new business is also not considered auspicious during Holashtak. Instead, consider launching your venture before or after this period. By postponing these significant events and decisions, you can ensure a more positive and prosperous outcome.

 


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


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