holashtak 2026Image Credit source: PTI

Holashtak 2026 Date: In Hindu religion, the festival of Holi is celebrated with great enthusiasm, but Holashtak falls just 8 days before the hustle and bustle of Holi. According to astrology and religious beliefs, these 8 days are considered prohibited for auspicious works. If you are planning any big auspicious event like marriage, mundan or housewarming in the year 2026, then this news is very important for you. Let us know the exact date of Holashtak and the precautions to be taken during this time.

Holashtak 2026: When till when? (Holashtak 2026 Dates)

According to the Panchang, Holashtak starts from the Ashtami date of Shukla Paksha of Phalgun month and continues till the full moon (Holika Dahan).

• Holashtak start: 24 February 2026
• End of Holashtak: 3 March 2026 (with Holika Dahan)
• Dhulendi (Coloured Holi): 4 March 2026

What is Holashtak?

The word Holashtak is made up of two words, Holi and Ashtak (ie eight). According to religious beliefs, the nature of the planets remains quite aggressive during these eight days. According to the scriptures, during these days, devotee Prahlad was tortured a lot by his father Hiranyakashyap. Therefore, these eight days are considered to be filled with negative energy and there is lack of auspiciousness in the environment during this period.

What not to do in Holashtak? (Don'ts During Holashtak)

During Holashtak, one should not do the following tasks even by mistake, otherwise one may have to face inauspicious consequences.

Auspicious work: Auspicious functions like marriage, engagement, mundan, and sacred thread ceremony are completely prohibited.

New Business: Starting a new business or shop during these days is not considered auspicious.

House entry and construction: Neither lay the foundation of a new house nor enter a new house.

Shopping for valuables: One should also avoid registering a new car, gold-silver or real estate.

What to do in Holashtak? (Do's during Holashtak)

Even if auspicious works are prohibited, this time is considered best for devotion and sadhana.

• Charity: It is beneficial to donate grains, clothes and money to the poor as per one's capacity during Holashtak.
• Chanting of mantras: Worshiping Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva at this time is fruitful. Chant the mantra 'Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevay'.
• Spiritual purification: Sprinkle Ganga water in the house and burn camphor in the evening to keep negative energy away.

Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.