The most inauspicious 8 days of the year are starting from 24th February, do not do these things even by mistake:

News India Live, Digital Desk: In Hindu religion, the festival of Holi is a symbol of happiness and colors, but the time just 8 days before Holi is considered very sensitive. this period ‘Holashtak’ (Holashtak) is called. Holashtak in the year 2026 24 February starting from March 3 Will last till Holika Dahan. According to astrology and religious beliefs, doing any auspicious or auspicious work is prohibited during these 8 days.

Important dates of Holashtak 2026

Holashtak Start: 24 February 2026 (Phalgun Shukla Paksha Ashtami)

Holashtak ends: 3 March 2026 (with Holika Dahan)

Holi with colors (Dhulendi): 4 March 2026

What should not be done in Holashtak?

According to religious beliefs, the impact of negative energy remains high during these 8 days, hence the following actions should be avoided:

Auspicious work: There is a complete ban on rituals like marriage, engagement, house warming and mundan.

New Purchase: Buying a new vehicle, land or house during this period is not considered auspicious.

New Business: Avoid starting any new business or making big investments.

Cutting hair and nails: Cutting hair, beard and nails is prohibited during Holashtak. It is believed that doing this increases poverty and brings negativity in life.

After all, why are these 8 days considered inauspicious?

There are two major mythological and astrological reasons behind Holashtak:

Tortures of devotee Prahlad: It is believed that Hiranyakashyap along with his sister Holika had planned to kill devotee Prahlad. Prahlad was subjected to terrible torture in these 8 days before Holika Dahan, hence this time is considered a symbol of grief and suffering.

Burning of Kamadeva: According to mythology, on this day Lord Shiva opened his third eye and destroyed Kamadeva, due to which there was lack of love and happiness in the world.

Fierce nature of planets: According to astrology, during Holashtak, planets like Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn and Rahu-Ketu remain in a furious state, due to which one does not get the results of auspicious works.

What to do in Holashtak?

Although this time is not auspicious for new work, it is best for spiritual progress:

Bhajan-Kirtan: It is auspicious to worship Lord Vishnu and Shiva.

Charity: Donating grains, clothes or money to the needy reduces the negative effects of the planets.

Mantra chanting: Gayatri Mantra or Mahamrityunjaya Mantra can be chanted to avoid negative energy. Special Tip: If you are planning to buy any big item for home or a car, then buy it before 24th February or after 4th March.