Holashtak 2025: Why no auspicious work is performed during this period

The Holashtak period, spanning from March 7 to March 13, 2025, is considered highly inauspicious in Hindu astrology.

This eight-day phase, leading up to Holika Dahan, is marked by the aggressive influence of seven planets and Rahu, resulting in an increase in negative energy.

Consequently, activities such as weddings, house construction, and property purchases are traditionally avoided to prevent obstacles and failures.

Astrological Significance of Holashtak

According to astrologers, during Holashtak, all planets emit negative energy, making it an unfavorable time for new beginnings. The planetary aggression during this time can cause instability, making any auspicious work prone to failure.

Each day of Holashtak is associated with a specific planet in an aggressive state:

8th day – The Moon becomes aggressive.

9th day – The Sun becomes aggressive.

10th day – Saturn becomes aggressive.

11th day – Venus becomes aggressive.

12th day – Jupiter becomes aggressive.

13th day – Mercury becomes aggressive.

14th day – Mars becomes aggressive.

Full Moon (Purnima) – Rahu becomes aggressive.

Since these planets are believed to influence human life and events, their instability during Holashtak suggests a period of caution.

Mythological Origin of Holashtak

The origin of Holashtak is linked to a significant mythological event. According to Hindu beliefs, Kamadeva, the God of Love, attempted to disrupt Lord Shiva’s meditation at the request of Goddess Parvati. Enraged, Lord Shiva opened his third eye, reducing Kamadeva to ashes.

This event is believed to have taken place on the first day of Holashtak, marking a period of planetary unrest and instability. As a result, Hindus avoid celebrations, marriages, and important rituals during these eight days.

What Can Be Done During Holashtak?

While auspicious activities are avoided, Holashtak is considered an ideal time for spiritual practices, charity, meditation, and self-reflection. Many people engage in:

Offering donations to the needy.

Performing pujas and rituals to appease planetary influences.

Focusing on inner growth through meditation and prayers.

Conclusion

Holashtak serves as a period of caution in Hindu traditions, emphasizing the importance of timing in astrology. As this phase concludes with Holika Dahan on March 13, 2025, normal activities and auspicious ceremonies can resume after the festival of Holi, bringing renewed positivity and prosperity.

For those seeking to align their lives with astrological wisdom, waiting until after Holashtak to start new ventures is considered a prudent choice.