Significance
Holika Dahan, observed on the full moon night of Phalguna (the eve of Holi), commemorates the divine protection of young Prahlada -- the ardent devotee of Vishnu -- from his demoness aunt Holika, who possessed a boon of immunity from fire. When she sat in the flames with Prahlada, her boon was revoked by divine will; she burned while Prahlada emerged unscathed. The bonfire symbolizes the victory of devotion over arrogance, and good over evil. Spiritually, it represents burning away ego, attachment, and negativity.
Preparation
Rituals & Vidhi
Sandhya Puja
At dusk, prepare the bonfire pile. Worship Holika (the fire) and Prahlada with flowers, kumkum, and water before lighting.
Mantra: Asrikam Pasya Mam Deva Trahi Mam Purushotama
Pradakshina
Walk around the bonfire seven times (parikrama) clockwise, carrying the puja thali with a diya. Each round, offer a small portion of wheat or grain into the fire.
Roasting Grains
Roast the tips of wheat stalks in the bonfire flames. This represents the first offering of the new harvest and a prayer for abundance in the coming season.
Collecting Holy Ash
After the fire has subsided, collect a small amount of the holy ash (Vibhuti) the next morning. Apply it to the forehead as a blessing and protection.
Family Guidance
Tell children the story of Prahlada in detail -- how his love for Vishnu protected him even from the fire. Ask them what they wish to "burn away" from their lives this year (a bad habit, a fear) and let them symbolically toss a stick into the fire.