Holi 2022 Date: When is Holi, History and Significance of This Day

Holi 2022: This festival signifies the triumph of good over evil and is largely celebrated by the Hindus.

Holi 2022 Date: While India is a country full of festivals and cultures, Indians look forward to the festival of colours, Holi the most. The festival is all about getting together to eat, dance, throw colours at each other and celebrate the festival. Holi is one of the most prominent and happiest festivals in India. The festival marks the arrival of spring and thanksgiving for a good harvest.

This festival signifies the triumph of good over evil and is largely celebrated by the Hindus. The gala festival is celebrated by many religions in different countries by dashing each other with bright colour powder.

When is Holi 2021?

This year, India will celebrate Holi on March 18, 2022 (Friday). Whereas, Holika Dahan will be celebrated on March 17, 2022, i.e. Saturday.

Shubh muhurat to celebrate Holika Dahan

As per Drikpanchang.com, Purnima Tithi Begins – at 01:29 pm on March 17, 2022. Purnima Tithi Ends – 12:47 am on March 18, 2022.

As per Hindu scriptures Holika Dahan, also known as Holika Deepak or Chhoti Holi, should be done during Pradosh Kaal (which starts after sunset) while Purnimasi Tithi is prevailing.

Significance of Holika Dahan

The festivities begin on the night before the main Holi with Holika Dahan where people gather to perform religious rituals and also burn the effigy of Holika, the sister of the demon king Hiranyakashipu, as a sign of the victory of good over evil. The first day is often referred to as Chhoti Holi and the next morning is celebrated as Rangwali Holi where all gather and play with colours.

Importance of Holi

On Holi, anyone and everyone is fair game, friend or stranger, rich or poor, man or woman, children and elders, they all take part in the smearing of colours, dancing and singing and eating. People would even visit friends and families and share Holi delicacies, food and drinks. On this day, some would indulge in customary drinks like bhang (made from cannabis), which is intoxicating.

History of Holi

There are a number of legends associated with Holi with one attributed to Vishnu and another to Krishna. Most places that are associated with Lord Krishna celebrate Holi with great pomp. These regions, known as Braj, include Mathura, Vrindavan and Barsana. Celebrations here go on for as long as 16 days. The Lathimar Holi in Barsana is famous for its unique ritual of women hitting men with sticks while they shield themselves.

Wish you a colourful and happy Holi!