Holi, the festival of colours, is one of the most cherished celebrations in India, marking the arrival of spring with joy, devotion, and a splash of vibrant hues. In Mumbai, preparations are already underway as devotees get ready to observe the festival with religious fervour and cultural enthusiasm. Scheduled for March 14, 2025, this year’s Holi will see thousands following age-old customs to seek divine blessings while reveling in festivities.
Key Muhurat Timings for Holi 2025
For those keen on adhering to traditional practices, religious leaders have outlined the most auspicious moments for worship and rituals. Observing these timings is believed to enhance spiritual benefits and bring prosperity.
- Brahma Muhurat: 5:03 AM – 5:51 AM
- Abhijit Muhurat: 12:12 PM – 12:59 PM
- Vijay Muhurat: 2:20 PM – 3:40 PM
- Godhuli Muhurat: 7:20 PM – 7:35 PM
- Nishita Muhurat: 11:17 PM – 12:09 AM
- Amrit Kaal: 3:54 AM – 4:55 AM (next day)
Many believe that performing Holi rituals during these sacred windows invites divine grace and ensures peace in the household.
When to Bathe and Worship Deities
While many devotees traditionally start their day with a bath and prayers, Holi calls for a slight deviation from this routine.
It is advised that deities should not be bathed early in the morning on Holi. Instead, a vessel filled with colours (gulal) should be placed in front of them first. Only after participating in Holi festivities should devotees cleanse themselves and proceed to bathe the idols. Following this, a proper puja should be performed, complete with offerings of bhog and the application of gulal to the deities.
Best Time to Offer Colours to the Deities
For those wishing to perform the gulal offering as per tradition, the most favourable time is during Abhijit Muhurat (12:12 PM – 12:59 PM). Another suitable time slot is Godhuli Muhurat (7:20 PM – 7:35 PM), a period associated with twilight worship, believed to bring spiritual harmony.
Why Holi Worship Holds Great Significance
Beyond the merriment and colour play, Holi carries deep spiritual significance. Scriptures suggest that prayers and rituals performed on this day bring prosperity, cleanse the mind and soul, and protect devotees from negative influences.
- It is believed that observing Holi rituals removes obstacles and ensures a year filled with good fortune.
- Many devotees also conduct special prayers to Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva, deities closely linked to the festival.
- Applying gulal to the idols is considered symbolic of surrendering to divine joy and grace.
Cultural and Religious Harmony in Mumbai’s Celebrations
Mumbai’s Holi celebrations are unique, blending religious devotion with grand public festivities. Temples and households prepare days in advance, ensuring rituals are conducted with precision. At the same time, communities come together in a spirit of unity, celebrating with dance, music, and of course, an explosion of colours.
The city’s temples, particularly the iconic ISKCON Temple in Juhu, are expected to witness large gatherings of devotees offering prayers and partaking in Holi celebrations. Several cultural events and bhajan programs will be organized across the city, drawing thousands of participants.
As the countdown to Holi 2025 begins, Mumbai is set to experience yet another memorable celebration, filled with devotion, colour, and festivity. With religious traditions deeply woven into the fabric of the festival, devotees are preparing to mark the occasion with the perfect balance of faith and fun.
