There is a special period of eight days before Holi, which is called Holashtak, which runs from Phalgun Shukla Ashtami to Falgun Purnima. According to astrology, the position of the planets is considered fierce and inauspicious during this period, due to which auspicious works are stopped. Mythological cause of Holashtak

Holashtak is associated with Lord Vishnu's supreme devotee Prahlad and his father Hiranyakashyap. From Phalgun Shukla Ashtami to Holika Dahan, Hiranyakashyap tortured Prahlada many. During these 8 days, Prahlad was tortured like burning in the fire, throwing it from the mountain, crushing with elephants, but he was adamant in devotion to Lord Vishnu. From religious point of view, it was the time of difficult test of Prahlad, so it is considered an inauspicious time. This time is considered associated with conflict, fierceness and inauspicious. The position of eight planets during Holashtak is considered inauspicious. Due to the fierce effect of these planets, it is appropriate to postpone auspicious works during this period.

Inauspicious effects of Holashtak:

• Mental stress and anger increase
• Possibility of dispute, accident and conflict
• At this time people's nature can be fierce, so avoid anger.
• Debate or quarrel with someone can cause harm.

Measures to avoid inauspicious effects of Holashtak

• Worship Lord Vishnu and Narasimha avatar. Especially chant the mantra “Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevaya”.
• Hanuman Chalisa and Rudrabhishek, which reduces the effect of fiery planets.
• Make a swastika with turmeric and vermilion at the main gate and light a lamp daily at home.
• Do charity – Donating food, clothes etc. to the poor removes negativity.
• Avoid anger and controversy.
• Practice restraint and meditation.