The Holashtak 2022 started from 2.56 am today that is on March 10, on Thursday. It will continue till March 17, 2022. This 8 day period is considered inauspicious and thus no auspicious ceremonies are done during Holashtak.
What is Holashtak
Holashtak is an eight-day period that is observed every year before Holi. It begins on the Shukla Pakshya of the Hindu month of Phalguna and continues till the Purnima. It is mostly observed in Punjab, Bihar, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh.
Background
As per Hindu mythology, the demon king Hiranyakashyapu tortured Prahllad, his son and the great devotee of Lord Vishnu, in these 8 days period. Finally, as he could not succeed in his evil intention as Prahllad got saved each time by the grace of God and his great devotion, Holika, the sister of Hiranyakapur also tried to kill Prahllad but she got killed herself. Hence, this 8 day period in the year is considered inauspicious and no auspicious events are organised.
As per another legend, during Holashtak Lord Shiva burnt Kama Deva to ashes. He was resurrected after eight days of penance by his wife Rati. Accordingly, the 8 day period is regarded inauspicious.
Things to avoid during Holashtak
Since these 8 days are regarded inauspicious, people should avoid marriage, thread ceremony, purchase of new land or house, vehicle and launch of a new venture. It is considered these occasions will not earn success if started during these 8 days period of Holashtak.
Ms Kalinga