Holashtak 2026 Begins: 8 Days of Caution Before Holi, Avoid Auspicious Acts

• Holashtak, the eight days before Holi, starts today on Phalgun Shukla Ashtami and ends on Holika Dahan.
• This period is considered inauspicious for new ventures, weddings, housewarmings, and other ceremonies.
• Planets like Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, and Rahu are believed to be aggressive during Holashtak.
• Mythological tales link Holashtak to Prahlad and Hiranyakashipu, Lord Shiva incinerating Kamadeva, and Lord Krishna's Holi celebrations.
• Focus on worship, chanting mantras like 'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya', and charity during Holashtak.