Holi, the vibrant festival of colours cherished across India, has generated considerable uncertainty this year regarding its observance in 2026. The celebration, traditionally held on the full moon night of Phalguna (Phalguna Purnima), faces complications due to a total lunar eclipse occurring on the evening of March 3.
According to Drik Panchang, the astronomical and calendrical authority frequently referenced for Hindu timings, the Purnima tithi begins on March 2 evening and extends into March 4. However, the eclipse on March 3 evening activates a ‘sutak’ period, during which auspicious rituals are traditionally prohibited. Holika Dahan—the ceremonial bonfire marking the eve of Holi—must occur after sunset in the ‘pradosh kaal’ window, free from any ‘bhadra’ or ‘sutak’ influences. The eclipse renders the March 3 evening unsuitable for this rite in numerous areas.
As a result, regional practices have diverged. In certain states, communities have shifted Holika Dahan to March 2, allowing Rangwali Holi—the main day of playing with colours—to take place on March 3. Other regions have opted to conduct Holika Dahan on March 3 (post-eclipse considerations) and observe Holi on March 4.
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States and cities planning Holi on March 3 include Maharashtra (such as Mumbai, Pimpri, and Pune), Gujarat (including Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Surat), parts of Rajasthan (Jaisalmer), and Karnataka (Mangalore).
In contrast, Holi on March 4 is scheduled in Uttar Pradesh, New Delhi, Rajasthan (Kota and Jaipur), Maharashtra (Nagpur), Karnataka (Bengaluru and Mysore), Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and Odisha.
This variation underscores how local interpretations of panchang guidelines and astronomical events influence festival timings. Despite the differing dates, the core essence of Holi endures—commemorating the triumph of good over evil, the legend of Holika’s defeat, and the welcoming of spring with joy, forgiveness, and communal harmony.