In 2026, India will witness the longest solar eclipse of the century, raising questions regarding the festival of Holi, which is traditionally celebrated with colors. According to the Hindu calendar, the date for Holi is unclear, as the auspicious rituals for Holika Dahan are suggested to take place on March 2, while a lunar eclipse is scheduled for March 3. The presence of the lunar eclipse introduces ambiguity regarding the festivities and rituals associated with Holi.

As per religious beliefs, the sutak period (a phase of preparation and restraint) during an eclipse prohibits engaging in celebrations, including the playing of colors, which is a hallmark of Holi. This annual festival is highly significant in Indian culture, and such various celestial events can affect the customary rituals that people look forward to. The anticipation around the longest solar eclipse is expected to attract considerable attention from the public and scholars alike as they prepare for these significant celestial occurrences.

The overlap of the solar eclipse with Holi introduces potential shifts in how the festival is celebrated in 2026. Many followers may seek guidance on how to appropriately observe the festival amid these astronomical events. This situation underscores the importance of astronomy in cultural practices and provides an opportunity for discussions about the interplay between science and tradition in India.