Holika Dahan 2026: Why are cow dung cakes offered in Holika fire? Know the shocking reason behind this

As soon as the full moon of Phalgun month arrives, an atmosphere of excitement is created in the entire country. This is the time when people start preparing for Holika Dahan, the festival symbolizing the victory of good over evil. It is believed that Holika fire not only burns wood but also burns away the negativity and sorrows of life. This year, Holika Dahan will be celebrated on March 03 and Holi of colors will be played the next day. Holika Dahan is considered a festival related to faith and belief.

According to mythology, this festival gives the message of victory of truth over ego and injustice. For this reason, people perform special prayers on this day and light a fire and pray to God for happiness and peace. When Holika fire burns, people offer some old items from their homes in it. This is not just a tradition but a symbolic gesture. It means that a new beginning should be made by consecrating the negative memories, troubles and bad habits of the past in the fire.

Tradition of offering old items and cakes

It is often seen that at the time of Holika Dahan, cow dung cakes are also added along with wood. According to religious belief, the cow is considered sacred and its dung is considered a symbol of purity. Therefore the use of cow dung cakes holds special importance in this ritual. It is said that offering cow dung cakes in the fire of Holika removes negative energy from the house. This maintains peace, health and prosperity in the family. People believe that this purifies the mind and removes troubles and poverty from the house.

Religious and scientific reasons behind the tradition

This tradition is not only linked to faith, but some practical reasons are also given behind it. It is believed that the smoke coming out of cow dung cakes helps in purifying the environment. Even today cow dung is used as fuel and disinfectant in rural areas. Cow dung is also used in Yagya and Havan, because it is considered sacred and useful. It is believed that burning cow dung cakes in Holika bonfire purifies the surrounding environment and spreads positive energy.

Holika Dahan is not only a religious ritual but also a sign of change in life. This festival teaches that one should leave the bad and adopt the good. When people circumambulate around the Holika fire, they mentally resolve to leave behind the troubles of their life. With this belief and feeling, people have been following this tradition for centuries.

Disclaimer: This article is based on religious beliefs and traditional beliefs. Its purpose is to provide general information only.Janbhavana TimesDoes not confirm this.