Holika Dahan is not just a religious ritual, but a confluence of traditions and faith. The practice of burning cow dung cakes on this day has been going on for centuries in many places including Chhatarpur district. It is believed that the holy fire of cow dung cakes eliminates negative energies and brings happiness, prosperity and peace in the family. A few days before Holika Dahan, small balls of cow dung (Gulariya) are made, which are dried in the sun and threaded on a rope. Seven garlands are made of these, out of which one big one is dedicated to Holika, while the rest are kept to protect the house.
This centuries-old tradition is important not only from a religious point of view but also from an environmental point of view. Burning cow dung cakes purifies the atmosphere and is also considered a source of natural energy.
Importance of cow dung ash
The ashes left after Holika Dahan are considered extremely sacred. Talking to Local 18, 82-year-old Prema Bai said that keeping the ashes of Badi Holika safe in the house protects against negative forces like ghosts. Also, it is believed that applying this ash on the forehead of a sick person provides health benefits. According to religious beliefs, this ash helps in maintaining happiness and prosperity in the house. Many people keep it at the place of worship or other sacred place, so that positive energy remains and evil forces stay away.
message of environmental protection
The use of cow dung cakes is not only beneficial from a religious point of view, but also for environmental protection. When cow dung cakes burn, the smoke emitted from them destroys the harmful germs present in the atmosphere, thereby maintaining cleanliness. Apart from this, it is also a natural and sustainable alternative to traditional fuel, which helps in reducing pollution.
