Holi, the festival of colours, is one of the most vibrant and joyous celebrations in India. This ancient Hindu festival heralds the arrival of spring and commemorates the victory of good over evil. As families and communities come together to revel in the kaleidoscope of colours, let’s delve into the rich history and fascinating facts behind this festival.
History of Festival:
Ancient Hindu mythology, with roots in various legends and religious traditions, is the origin of Holi. One of the most popular legends associated with festival is the story of Prahlada and Hiranyakashipu. Hindu mythology claims that divine intervention saved Prahlada, a devotee of Lord Vishnu, from the clutches of his evil father, Hiranyakashipu. To celebrate Prahlada’s salvation and the triumph of good over evil, people began to celebrate event with exuberant colors and festivities.
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This occurrence has another legend. According to folklore, the mischievous Hindu god Krishna splashed colors on his beloved Radha and her friends, starting Holi’s color play. Holidaze honors Radha and Krishna’s playful love.
Celebrating Holi
Indians celebrate Holi with passion and regional traditions. On the evening of the full moon, Phalguna celebrations begin with Holika Dahan, a bonfire that symbolises good triumphing over evil. Rangwali Holi is celebrated the following day with colourful street processions, music, dance, a water balloon, and coloured powder tossing.
Fascinating Facts about Holi:
- It is not just about throwing colors; it also involves indulging in traditional sweets and delicacies like gujiya, thandai, and puran poli.
- Various parts of the world, including Nepal, Bangladesh, and countries with large Indian diaspora communities, celebrate the festival of Holi.
- Traditional Holi colours are derived from turmeric, neem, and flowers, making it ecologically significant as well as cultural and religious.
- The playful tradition of ‘Lathmar Holi’ in the town of Barsana, Uttar Pradesh, involves women playfully hitting men with sticks, commemorating the legendary teasing of Krishna by Radha and her friends.
- The “Festival of Love” unites people of all castes, creeds, and social classes, promoting harmony and unity.
A traditional bonfire called Holika Dahan marks the victory of good over evil on the evening of the full moon day of Phalguna, generally in March.
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