As the rising flames engulf the effigy, prayers are made to Haul Mata, seeking forgiveness for past misgivings and invoking blessings for new beginnings. It is believed that the smoke rising from the burning effigy removes negative forces from the neighbourhood.
The tree trunk is seen as a manifestation of Holika, who possessed a boon making her immune to fire. Holika’s brother, Hiranyakashipu, had a son named Prahlad, who had unwavering bhakti (devotion) towards Lord Vishnu. In an attempt to kill Prahlad, Hiranyakashipu instructed Holika to sit on a burning pyre with Prahlad on her lap. However, due to Prahlad’s devotion to Lord Vishnu, he was saved from the flames while Holika was burned to ashes. This event symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is commemorated as Holika dahan.
Married women in the family adorn Holika with all the visual markers of a married woman. This includes items of solah shringar, which comprise 16 pieces of jewellery and accessories that complete the traditional look of a Hindu bride, placed on the effigy.
Women take out a procession, carrying earthen pots on their heads. They circle the effigy five times before breaking the pots in the fire. This tradition traces back to a time when ceremonial fires were carried in earthen pots.
Before starting any ritual, married women in the family bathe and dress in new Nauvari sarees (a nine-yard saree worn by Koli women). They then clasp their ears as a gesture of seeking forgiveness from Holika for any past transgressions.
After the fire has burned out, the ash is collected and scattered around the household to cleanse it of negative energies. Koli fishermen also apply the ash on their fishing boats and scatter it at sea. They believe this practice ensure the safety of their boats and brings a bountiful catch during the fishing season.
As a Mother Goddess, Holika is associated with abundance and prosperity, making her presence a joyous occasion of celebration. The preparations for Holika Dahan mirror those of a wedding, with homes decorated specially to receive the new bride.