Holi, the festival of colours, is a time of joy, unity, and new beginnings. One of the most sacred and lesser-known rituals performed on this auspicious occasion is Dhund Puja, a traditional ceremony dedicated to newborns. Celebrated on the morning of Holika Dahan, Dhund Puja is believed to protect infants from negative energies and bless them with good health and prosperity.
Significance of Dhund Puja
Dhund Puja is rooted in Hindu traditions and is mainly observed in North India. According to folklore, newborns and young children are vulnerable to evil spirits and negative influences. The ritual seeks divine blessings for their well-being and eliminates any malefic effects of planetary positions at birth.
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Dhund Puja Rituals and Procedure
If you have a newborn in your family, performing Dhund Puja during Holi 2025 (which falls on March 13-14, 2025) can be a spiritually enriching experience. Here’s how the puja is conducted:
- Preparation and Setup:
- The puja is typically conducted in an open space, preferably near the bonfire of Holika Dahan.
- Family members prepare a sacred area and gather ritual items like turmeric, kumkum, rice, flowers, sweets, and earthen lamps.
- Traditional Practices:
- The newborn is brought to the puja area, and turmeric paste is applied on their forehead and body to ward off evil spirits.
- The family elders take turns circling the child around the Holika fire while reciting prayers and mantras for protection and prosperity.
- In some regions, grains such as barley and mustard seeds are offered to the fire, symbolising the removal of negativity.
- Blessings and Celebrations:
- After the ritual, elders bless the child with akshat (rice mixed with turmeric) and offer sweets to mark the auspicious occasion.
- The baby’s maternal uncle or other relatives may give gifts as a token of goodwill and prosperity.
- Prasad Distribution: Conclude the puja by distributing sweets and fruits as Prasad among the attendees, sharing the blessings received.
Astrological Importance of Dhund Puja in 2025
Astrologically, Dhund Puja during Holi 2025 holds special significance due to the positioning of planetary bodies. Chandra (Moon) in Virgo and Surya (Sun) in Pisces are considered favourable for protective rituals. Performing this puja during Holika Dahan can enhance the child’s overall growth, health, and future success.
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Regional Variations of Dhund Puja
Different regions in India have their unique ways of celebrating this tradition:
- Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh: Special folk songs are sung, and a community gathering takes place to bless all newborns in the village.
- Gujarat and Maharashtra: Families light small earthen lamps around the newborn, symbolizing divine light and protection.
- Bihar and Madhya Pradesh: The ritual includes a small havan (fire ceremony) to invoke divine blessings.
Final Thoughts
Holi is a festival of love, happiness, and protection, making it ideal for celebrating new life and beginnings. Dhund Puja for newborns is not just a religious ritual but a beautiful family tradition that strengthens bonds and invokes divine blessings.
As you prepare for Holi 2025, consider embracing this meaningful tradition for your child’s well-being. May this Holi bring your family joy, prosperity, and good fortune!
Happy Holi and Blessed Dhund Puja!
