Phalguna Purnima / Holika Dahan (Nyara Pora) / Dol Purnima

3 March 2026

Significance

The Purnima of the Phalguna month. Celebrated on the eve of Holi and Dol Jatra, it marks the triumph of good over evil. Mythology states that the demoness Holika tried to burn Lord Vishnu's devotee Prahlad by sitting in a fire with him. Prahlad was saved and Holika was reduced to ashes. In Bengal this bonfire ritual is known as Nyara Pora or Chanchar.

Rituals & Customs

A large public bonfire is lit using dry wood, dry leaves, and cow dung cakes in the evening. Devotees circumambulate the fire, offering prayers to destroy the negative energies in their lives.

Fasting Rules

There is no strict fast for the masses, but the person officially leading the Holika Dahan prayers fasts until the bonfire is lit in the evening.

Auspicious Timing

Pradosh Kaal (evening, post-sunset) during the active Purnima tithi.

Consult an Astrologer