Every year, on the eve of Holi, bonfires light up across India as people gather for Holika Dahan which is a ritual that marks the triumph of good over evil. The flames tell an ancient story, but beyond the mythology, they carry a message that is just as relevant today… it’s time to burn away negativity and make space for renewal. Holi is a festival that celebrates the arrival of spring that breathes in new life, love, and so much more.
But how often do we really pause and reflect on the weight we carry? Emotional baggage that includes resentments, self-doubt, guilt, hatred…we drag these along adding weight to our body and mind. This Holika Dahan, let’s take inspiration from the fire and learn how to truly let go.
The Story of Holika Dahan – A Lesson in Transformation
For those unfamiliar, Holika Dahan is rooted in Hindu mythology. The tale revolves around Prahlad, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, and his tyrannical father, King Hiranyakashipu. The king, blinded by arrogance, demanded that everyone worship him instead of Vishnu. But Prahlad remained steadfast in his faith.
Enter Holika, the king’s sister, who had a magical boon: she could sit in fire without getting burned. To eliminate Prahlad, she sat with him in a blazing pyre, thinking she would remain unscathed. But the tables turned! Her powers failed because they were used with evil intent, and she perished, while Prahlad emerged unharmed.
This story isn’t just about divine intervention- it’s about truth and resilience triumphing over deceit and oppression. It’s a fiery reminder that negativity, whether in the form of toxic people, unhealthy patterns, or self-doubt…eventually crumbles under its own weight.
But only if we are willing to let it go.
What Negativity Are You Holding Onto?
Let’s be honest! We all have a “Holika” in our lives.
- Maybe it’s a grudge you’ve been nursing for years because someone wronged you.
- Maybe it’s self-doubt whispering that you’re not good enough.
- Maybe it’s a habit that drains your energy—doom-scrolling, people-pleasing, or second-guessing yourself into exhaustion.
- Or maybe it’s a relationship that feels more like an anchor than a sail.
We hold onto these things thinking they protect us. That somehow, keeping a score or overanalyzing will give us closure. But in reality, they burn us slowly, like an invisible fire we refuse to escape.
Holika Dahan asks us: Why wait for fate to burn them away? Why not light the match ourselves?
Lighting Your Own Holika: Ways to Burn Negativity
So how do we take this symbolic fire and turn it into real transformation? Here are a few ways to truly let go:
1. Write and Burn
One of the most cathartic exercises you can do is the “Write & Burn” ritual. Grab a piece of paper and write down everything that’s been weighing you down—your fears, anger, regrets, self-doubts. Then, in a safe place, burn it (even tearing it into tiny pieces works). Watching those words turn to ash is deeply symbolic. It signals to your mind that you are done carrying that burden.
2. Break Up (With Your Negativity)
Negativity is like a bad relationship—it keeps you trapped in cycles of overthinking, resentment, and exhaustion. So why not give it the classic breakup treatment?
- Name it. (“Overthinking, we need to talk.”)
- Write a closure letter. (“Dear self-doubt, it’s not me, it’s definitely you.”)
- Commit to boundaries. (“From now on, I will not entertain these thoughts past 10 minutes.”)
3. Practice Ho’oponopono – The Forgiveness Mantra
This Hawaiian practice is a simple yet profound way to cleanse negativity. It involves repeating these four phrases:
“I’m sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you. I love you.”
Use it for self-forgiveness, for releasing resentment towards others, or simply to reset your energy. It’s like an emotional detox—gentle, but powerful.
4. Declutter – Physically and Mentally
Let’s face it: Our surroundings mirror our minds. If your space is cluttered, it’s likely that your thoughts are too. Use Holi as an opportunity to declutter – old clothes, unread emails, toxic social media accounts, outdated beliefs…Just get rid of them. Make space for fresh energy.
5. Say It Out Loud: The Power of Verbal Release
Find a quiet place and say out loud what you want to release. “I let go of my fear of failure.” “I release my guilt.” “I am done with self-criticism.” Hearing your own voice declare freedom is incredibly empowering.
6. Replace, Don’t Just Remove
When you remove negativity, replace it with something positive.
- If you’re letting go of self-doubt, replace it with self-trust (affirmations help!).
- If you’re quitting negative self-talk, replace it with gratitude.
- If you’re cutting off a toxic relationship, invest in one that nourishes you.
This Holi, Set Yourself Free
Holi isn’t just about colors and celebrations. It’s about rebirth, about burning away what no longer serves you. Take time to step into a lighter space that brings in freedom and joy.
So this Holika Dahan, don’t just watch the fire…be a part of it. Write down your burdens, toss them into the flames (even if symbolically), and walk away knowing you’ve set yourself free.
Because here’s the truth: you don’t need permission to let go. The fire is already waiting. All you have to do is step in.
Happy Holi!
