Preparing the pyre
In the days before, wood, cow-dung cakes and dry leaves are collected at a crossroads or open ground, and a pole is set in the centre for Holika, sometimes with an image of Prahlada. Many families make garlands of small cow-dung cakes (badkulle or gulariya) to offer.
The puja
Sitting facing east or north near the pyre, sprinkle water and make the sankalpa. Worship Narasimha and Prahlada, then the pyre, with roli, rice, flowers, turmeric, gram, a coconut and sweets. Wind raw cotton thread around the pyre while walking round it three or seven times. Pour water from a pot round it.
At the auspicious time the pyre is lit. Offer new ears of wheat and barley and green gram to the fire and roast them; they are taken home as prasad. Walk around the fire and pray for the burning of all evil, as Holika burned and Prahlada was saved.
The next morning
A little ash from the fire is brought home and applied as a tilak for protection. On the day of colours, Dhulandi, the family first offers colour to the deities, especially Krishna and Radha, and then plays with colours, visiting friends and sharing gujiya and thandai.
Things to keep in mind
Holika Dahan is done only after sunset, on the full Moon, and never during Bhadra; the Holi date page gives the times. Newly married women in many regions do not watch the first Holika fire of their married life. Use natural colours the next day.