With Holi around the corner, many devotees were left confused about the correct date for Holika Dahan in 2026. The uncertainty arose due to the overlap of Bhadra Kaal, Phalguna Purnima tithi, and the first lunar eclipse of the year.

After detailed astrological calculations and traditional considerations, Holika Dahan is being observed today, March 3, 2026, while Holi (Rangwali Holi) will be celebrated on March 4.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the important timings and why March 3 is considered appropriate.

---

📅 Holika Dahan 2026 Date Clarified

Holika Dahan is performed on the night of Phalguna Purnima, the full moon day of the Hindu month of Phalguna. This ritual symbolises the victory of good over evil and commemorates the mythological tale of Prahlad and Holika.

In 2026, the alignment of lunar timings created confusion between March 2 and March 3. However, due to the presence of Bhadra Kaal on March 2 evening, March 3 has been deemed more suitable.

---

⏳ Bhadra Kaal Timing (Why March 2 Was Avoided)

According to the Hindu Panchang:

• Bhadra Kaal began: 5:45 PM on March 2
• Bhadra Kaal ended: 5:23 AM on March 3

Traditionally, Holika Dahan is not performed during Bhadra Kaal, as it is considered inauspicious for certain religious rituals.

Since Bhadra covered most of the evening and night window on March 2 — the ideal time for Holika Dahan — many communities chose not to perform the ritual on that day.

With Bhadra ending early on March 3, the day became ritually appropriate.

---

🌕 Phalguna Purnima Tithi Timing

Holika Dahan must be performed during Phalguna Purnima.

• Purnima began: 5:55 PM on March 2
• Purnima ends: 5:07 PM on March 3

Since the full moon tithi remains active on March 3 and Bhadra has already concluded, the date fits the traditional lunar requirements.

---

🌘 Lunar Eclipse 2026 and Sutak Period

The first lunar eclipse of 2026 is also occurring on March 3:

• Eclipse begins: 3:20 PM
• Eclipse ends: 6:46 PM
• Visible in India: Yes

Because the eclipse is visible in India, the Sutak period began at 6:20 AM on March 3.

During Sutak:

• Auspicious ceremonies are generally avoided.
• Temple rituals may be restricted.
• Many devotees refrain from cooking or performing sacred activities.

This added another layer of planning for families performing Holika Dahan.

---

🔥 Holika Dahan 2026 Muhurat (Auspicious Timing)

The recommended evening muhurat for Holika Dahan on March 3 is:

🕕 06:22 PM to 08:50 PM

This time falls after Bhadra Kaal has ended and aligns with the prescribed evening ritual window.

Devotees are advised to:

• Perform rituals after sunset
• Offer coconut, grains, and symbolic items into the fire
• Pray for prosperity, protection, and spiritual cleansing

---

🌈 Holi 2026 Date

The festival of colours, Holi, will be celebrated on March 4, 2026.

While Holika Dahan marks the symbolic burning of negativity, the following day celebrates joy, unity, and renewal.

---

📌 Why Confusion Happens in Some Years

In certain years, when:

• Purnima spans two days
• Bhadra overlaps evening hours
• An eclipse coincides with festival timing

Different interpretations may arise depending on regional traditions and Panchang calculations.

However, the widely accepted date for Holika Dahan in 2026 remains March 3.

Mumbai Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) in connection with alleged threats made against Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh. The case involves ransom demands, a threatening voice note, and references to violence targeting members of the film industry.

The investigation is currently being handled jointly by the Mumbai Crime Branch, Cyber Police, and the Anti-Extortion Cell.

---

📞 How the Threat Came to Light

According to police sources, Ranveer Singh’s manager received multiple threatening calls from an international number (+340), reportedly linked to the Virgin Islands.

The caller allegedly identified himself as “Harry Boxer” and demanded a ransom of ₹20 crore. When the demands were not met, a lengthy voice note was reportedly sent, warning of severe consequences.

Authorities verified the voice sample with the help of Punjab and Haryana Police, who confirmed that the voice in the recording matched that of the accused.

---

🎙 What Was in the Voice Note?

Police sources claim the voice note contained:

• Direct threats to Ranveer Singh
• A warning directed at filmmaker Rohit Shetty
• Statements cautioning the broader Bollywood industry
• Claims of involvement in violent incidents abroad

The accused allegedly stated that if demands were not fulfilled, “the next seven generations will remember the consequences.”

Law enforcement agencies are currently verifying the authenticity of these claims.

---

🚨 FIR and Investigation Details

The FIR was registered based on a formal complaint filed by Ranveer Singh’s manager.

Key investigative steps underway include:

• Tracing the international phone number
• Cyber forensics analysis of call data and voice samples
• Coordination with international authorities if required
• Examination of potential links to organised criminal networks

The actor’s home security has reportedly been strengthened, and he has been advised to follow additional safety measures during public appearances and shoots.

---

🔎 Possible Links to Previous Incidents

This development comes amid heightened scrutiny of criminal threats targeting the film industry.

Earlier this month, an incident involving firing outside the residence of Rohit Shetty in Mumbai’s Juhu area was reported. Authorities have arrested multiple suspects in that case.

While investigations are ongoing, police are examining whether there are any connections between the current threat and previous incidents involving organised crime groups.

At this stage, officials have not publicly confirmed any direct linkage.

---

⚖️ Legal Implications

If proven, the accused could face charges under:

• Criminal intimidation
• Extortion
• Cybercrime laws
• Provisions related to organised crime

Given the cross-border nature of the calls, international cooperation may be required.

---

🎬 Impact on the Industry

Threats against high-profile actors have, in recent years, raised concerns about security within the entertainment industry.

Production houses are reportedly reviewing security protocols, especially during outdoor shoots and public events.

Ranveer Singh has not yet issued a public statement regarding the matter.

---

📝 What Happens Next?

• Technical analysis of digital evidence
• Financial tracking of possible extortion attempts
• Custodial interrogation if the accused is apprehended
• Assessment of broader criminal networks

The investigation remains active, and authorities have stated that they are examining “all possible angles.”

---

Final Note

While the case is still under investigation, Mumbai Police have moved swiftly by registering an FIR and activating specialised units. Further updates are expected as forensic and cyber investigations progress.

Mahashivratri 2026 promises to be one of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world as the Isha Foundation prepares for its 33rd edition of the all-night celebration at the Isha Yoga Center. Led by yogi and mystic Sadhguru, the event will take place in the foothills of the Velliangiri Mountains and is expected to attract millions of viewers worldwide.

This year’s celebration gains additional prominence with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attending as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries include Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister L. Murugan.

The 12-hour overnight event will be broadcast live across more than 100 television networks and streamed digitally in 24 languages, beginning at 6 PM IST on February 15.

---

🌙 What is Mahashivratri According to Sadhguru?

Mahashivratri, meaning the “Great Night of Shiva,” is considered one of the most spiritually significant nights of the year. According to Sadhguru, the planetary alignment on this night creates a natural upsurge of energy in the human system, making it highly conducive for meditation and spiritual growth.

He explains that the Isha Yoga Center, located near the Velliangiri Mountains — often called the “Kailash of the South” — sits at approximately eleven degrees latitude. This geographical positioning is believed to intensify the natural centrifugal forces of the planet, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the night.

---

📅 Mahashivratri 2026: Full Event Schedule

The night-long celebration is carefully structured to blend ritual, music, meditation and cultural performances.

🔹 Pancha Bhuta Kriya

The celebrations begin with the sacred cleansing ritual at the Dhyanalinga, honoring the five elements — earth, water, fire, air and space.

🔹 Linga Bhairavi Maha Yatra

A grand procession celebrating the divine feminine energy, setting the spiritual tone for the night.

🔹 Cultural & Musical Performances

The event will feature a diverse lineup of artists, blending traditional Indian music with contemporary elements:

• Aditya Gadhvi (Gujarati folk)
• Prashant Sonagra and team (traditional drum collaboration)
• Sounds of Isha ensemble
• Swaroop Khan
• Blaaze
• Paradox
• Swagat Rathod
• Prithvi Gandharv

🔹 Yaksha Festival Highlights

Leading up to Mahashivratri, the Yaksha festival showcases classical Indian arts, including:

• Purbayan Chatterjee (Hindustani Sitar)
• Bharat Sundar (Carnatic Vocal)
• Vaibhav Aarekar (Bharatanatyam)

---

🕉️ Special Ritual: Yogeshwara Linga Maha Abhishekam

For the first time, Sadhguru will personally conduct the Yogeshwara Linga Maha Abhishekam — a sacred consecration ritual.

The Yogeshwara Linga, positioned before the iconic 112-foot Adiyogi statue, is consecrated with five chakras and designed specifically to support spiritual practices. Devotees worldwide can participate remotely by registering and having offerings made in their name. Participation is complimentary, with optional donations supporting Mahashivratri activities and Maha Annadanam (mass food offering).

---

✨ Highlight of the Night: Adiyogi Divya Darshanam

One of the most awaited segments is the Adiyogi Divya Darshanam — a spectacular light and sound show projected onto the 112-foot Adiyogi statue.

Narrated by Sadhguru, the show recounts the origins of yoga and transforms the statue into a luminous spiritual experience for both on-site attendees and online viewers.

---

🕛 Key Spiritual Moments

• Midnight: Mahamantra initiation led by Sadhguru
• 3:40 AM (Brahma Muhurtam): Guided meditation designed to harness the peak spiritual energy of the night

Sadhguru describes this period as an opportunity to experience the “vast emptiness within,” which he calls the source of all creation.

---

🌍 Global Reach and Significance

Over the years, Mahashivratri at Isha has evolved into a landmark event on the international spiritual calendar. It regularly attracts cultural icons, political leaders, and global seekers.

With an estimated viewership exceeding 140 million worldwide, the event rivals some of the largest global live broadcasts in scale and engagement.

---

📌 Why Mahashivratri at Isha Stands Out

• Unique geographic location near Velliangiri foothills
• All-night format encouraging wakefulness and meditation
• Blend of ancient ritual and contemporary presentation
• Global digital accessibility in multiple languages
• Participation options for devotees worldwide

---

🔚 Final Thought

Whether attending in person at the vibrant Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore or tuning in from across the globe, Mahashivratri 2026 offers a rare convergence of devotion, culture, music and meditation.

It is not merely a festival — it is an immersive spiritual experience designed to awaken awareness and inner stillness.