Holika Dahan 2026 is set to commence at one of the most revered locations for Hindus, the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, on the evening of March 3. As festivities unfold across the country later that night, the first Holika Dahan will take place at this temple during the evening aarti. This long-standing ritual not only serves as a devotional function but also sets the tone for Holi celebrations throughout India. Worshippers believe that when Holika is ignited first in the presence of Lord Shiva, the festival begins auspiciously, free from negativity.

Cultural Context and Beliefs

The deity Mahakal is regarded as the king of Ujjain and symbolizes both time and mortality. Traditional practices dictate that significant festivals commence in the royal court before reaching the general public. This tradition influences the Holika Dahan at Mahakaleshwar. According to priests, there are no specific timing restrictions for the ritual, as Lord Shiva transcends time. The lighting of the Holika fire is intended to dispel adverse energies from the city, establishing a positive atmosphere ahead of the broader Holi celebrations.

Spiritual Significance of the Ritual

Similar to rituals performed elsewhere, Holika Dahan signifies the defeat of evil and the safeguarding of Prahlad. However, at Mahakal, this event holds additional layers of meaning. The flames represent the worship of Shiva and Shakti, symbolizing the annihilation of ignorance and the invocation of clarity and awareness. The ashes produced from this particular Holika are deemed sacred and are utilized in the subsequent morning’s Bhasm Aarti, where they are applied as vibhuti to Lord Shiva in his Mahakal form.

Timing and Steps of the Ritual

The ritual is scheduled to commence on March 3, following the sandhya aarti, typically occurring between 7 and 8 PM IST. Priests will chant mantras and offer herbal gulal and shakkar mala before lighting a Holika composed of wood and cow dung within the temple grounds. Devotees gather to witness the flames, marking the official onset of Holi, which will be celebrated with colors on March 4.

Involvement of Devotees

Pilgrims arrive early for the aarti, applying vibhuti, singing devotional songs, and waiting for a glimpse of the deity. Many also offer gulal at the shrine, circulate around the temple, and collect ashes from the Holika to take home for personal worship. Some devotees choose to stay overnight to participate in the Bhasm Aarti the following day, which incorporates ashes from the fire. While the rituals at Mahakal do not dictate the official dates for Holi, they possess profound symbolic importance. Cities and towns across India observe their Holika Dahan following the fire at Mahakal, influenced by the belief that the festival should commence under the watchful eye of Lord Shiva. This tradition has established Ujjain as a significant destination for pilgrims during the Holi season.

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