Holi 2026: Date, Holika Dahan and Significance
Holi is the festival of colours celebrated on the full moon day of Phalguna. In 2026, Holika Dahan falls on 2 March (Monday) and Rangwali Holi on 3 March (Tuesday). It is one of the most joyful festivals of India, celebrated across communities.
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About Holi
Holi is one of India's most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals, known as the Festival of Colours. It marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. The festival begins with Holika Dahan (bonfire) on the eve of Holi, followed by Rangwali Holi — a day of playing with colours, water and joyful celebration.
The Story of Holi
The festival of Holi carries the ancient story of the young devotee Prahlad, whose unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu could not be shaken even by his father, the demon king Hiranyakashipu.
When all attempts to kill Prahlad failed, Hiranyakashipu enlisted his sister Holika — who had the gift of being fire-proof — to sit in a bonfire with Prahlad in her lap. Instead, it was Holika who perished and Prahlad who walked out unharmed. The bonfire of Holika Dahan symbolises this victory.
The next day, Rangwali Holi, is a celebration of spring, love and joy. Colours represent the blossoming of nature after winter and the spirit of togetherness that transcends barriers.
How to Celebrate Holi
Holika Dahan (evening before Holi)
Gather around the community bonfire in the evening. Offer coconut, wheat and flowers to the fire. Circumambulate the fire three times.
Prepare natural colours
Use natural colours made from flowers (gulal) wherever possible. Avoid synthetic chemical colours that can harm skin.
Play with colours joyfully
Apply colours on the faces of family and friends while saying "Holi Hai!" Drench each other with coloured water.
Share sweets and food
Prepare and share traditional Holi foods — gujiya, thandai, mathri and other sweets.
Visit family and friends
Holi is a day to repair broken relationships, visit elders and strengthen community bonds.
Colours, Food and Traditions
Traditional Foods
- •Gujiya
- •Thandai
- •Mathri
- •Malpua
- •Dahi Bhalla
- •Puran Poli (Maharashtra)
Natural Colours Used
- •Gulal (red from flowers)
- •Yellow (turmeric)
- •Green (neem/henna)
- •Blue (indigo)
- •Orange (marigold)
ℹ️ Traditions and foods vary by region. This is general guidance — editorial content will be finalised before publishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Source Details
Date Source
Hindu Panchang — Phalguna Purnima
Last Reviewed
5 June 2026
Verification Status
Dates from Hindu Panchang · Holi: 2 March, Holika Dahan: 1 March 2026
Applicable Region
Pan-India
