Holi 2026 is celebrated over two days, based on the Hindu lunar calendar (Phalguna Purnima). This year, due to the total lunar eclipse (Chandra Grahan) on March 3, 2026, there are some regional variations in exact timings for rituals, but the main festival dates are consistent in Odisha and most parts of India.
- Holika Dahan (Chhoti Holi / Small Holi): Tuesday, March 3, 2026 (evening). This is the bonfire ritual where people burn Holika’s effigy to symbolize the victory of good over evil.
- Rangwali Holi / Dhulandi / Main Festival of Colours: Wednesday, March 4, 2026. This is when people play with colors (gulal, pichkari), throw water, dance, and celebrate joyfully.
-
Key Timings (as per Drik Panchang for New Delhi/Bhubaneswar region)
- Phalguna Purnima Tithi begins: March 2, 2026, around 5:55 PM.
- Purnima Tithi ends: March 3, 2026, around 5:07 PM.
- Holika Dahan Muhurat (auspicious time for bonfire): Usually evening of March 3 (specific local muhurat may vary slightly; check local panchang for Bhubaneswar – often 6:22 PM to 8:50 PM or similar).
- Moonrise on Purnima: Around evening of March 3.
In Odisha, Holi is observed as a regional holiday on March 4, 2026 (Wednesday), and celebrations include Dol Purnima traditions, especially in places like Puri connected to Lord Jagannath. The eclipse on March 3 affects some rituals (e.g., no major auspicious activities during grahan/sutak period), so Holika Dahan is performed on March 3 evening/post-eclipse in most areas, and color play on March 4.
Note: In Odisha, it’s a public/regional holiday on March 4. Some sources mention minor variations (e.g., post-eclipse timings), but the standard date for Rangwali Holi is March 4 across most of eastern India, including Odisha.
- March 3 (Tue) evening → Holika Dahan (bonfire).
- March 4 (Wed) → Full Holi with colors, fun, and family gatherings.