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Holi will be celebrated on March 25, on the first day of which there will be a ritual of Holika Dahan or burning of Holika. This year, there is some ambiguity regarding the timing of Holika Dahan due to the presence of Bhadra Kaal during the night, during which auspicious activities are traditionally avoided. According to astrology, Bhadra period is considered inauspicious, because it is considered to be related to Bhadra, daughter of Lord Surya and sister of Saturn. Bhadra is considered to be as harsh and angry in nature as Shani, hence there are restrictions on auspicious works during this period.
The auspicious time of Holika Dahan is scheduled from 11:15 pm to 12:30 am on March 24. After Holika Dahan, the festival of playing Holi with colors will start. However, due to Bhadra period, there is uncertainty whether Holika Dahan will be performed this year or not. According to religious texts, burning Holika during Bhadra Mukha is considered inauspicious, which is tantamount to inviting misfortune.
In Hindu mythology, Bhadra Mukha is believed to pass through all three worlds – earth, underworld and heaven. Therefore, it is important to avoid doing auspicious work during this period. Irrespective of Bhadra Mukha, the auspicious time of Holika Dahan is determined on the day of Pradosh Vyapini Purnima and it is advisable to perform Holika Dahan after the end of Bhadra. However, if Bhadra continues till midnight, Holika Dahan can be performed during Bhadra Poonch. Nevertheless, it is strictly advised not to perform Holika Dahan during Bhadra Mukha, as it is considered inauspicious as per religious texts.