Holi 2026: What to Donate and What to Avoid on the Festival of Colours

Holi is being celebrated across India today, March 4, 2026. The festival falls in the month of Chaitra and marks a seasonal transition, symbolising the arrival of spring. While people celebrate by applying colours and exchanging greetings, religious traditions also emphasise prayer, charity, and good deeds on this auspicious day. Here’s a guide to what is considered auspicious and what should be avoided when donating on Holi:

What to Donate on Holi

Donating the following items on Holi is considered highly auspicious:

• Wheat
• Copper
• Silver
• Gulal (coloured powder)

It is believed that performing charity according to one’s capacity, along with prayers and rituals, invites prosperity, happiness, and abundance into the home.

What Not to Donate on Holi

• White items: It is believed that donating white-coloured items on Holi may displease the planet Venus (Shukra) and can also lead to Chandra dosha (negative lunar influence).
• Money: Donating cash on Holi is generally discouraged, as it is believed to negatively impact one’s financial stability.
• Glass items: Avoid donating items made of glass on this day.
• Iron or steel utensils: Donating iron or steel objects is considered inauspicious and may bring difficulties.
• Mustard oil: Offering mustard oil in charity on Holi is believed to anger Shani Dev (Saturn).
• Marital symbols (Suhaag items): Items such as bangles, sindoor, bindis, and other symbols associated with married women should not be donated on Holi.

Disclaimer: The content provided here is based on beliefs and information only. Always consult a concerned expert.