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Holi is celebrated primarily in India and Nepal. It is also known as the “Festival of Colors” or the “Festival of Love”. The festival is typically celebrated in late February or early March, on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Phalguna.
The festival marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. Holi is known for the colourful powders and water that are thrown on each other, which symbolise the new colours of spring and the victory of good over evil.
On the day of Holi, people gather in public places and throw coloured powders and water at each other, sing and dance to traditional music, and enjoy festive food and drinks. The colours used in Holi have traditional meanings; for example, red represents love and fertility, blue represents the Hindu god Krishna, and green represents spring and new beginnings.
In addition to the colourful celebrations, Holi is also associated with various legends and stories in Hindu mythology. One popular legend is the story of Prahlada, a young prince who was saved from his demon father by Lord Vishnu.
The most popular story related to Holi is that of Lord Krishna and Radha. According to the legend, young Krishna was jealous of Radha’s fair complexion and complained to his mother about it. To console her son, Krishna’s mother suggested that he apply colour on Radha’s face to change her complexion. This playful act eventually became a tradition and is now an integral part of the Holi celebrations.
Overall, Holi is a time for people to come together, let go of grudges and conflicts, and celebrate the joy and vibrancy of life. It is a festival of unity, love, and harmony that is celebrated with great enthusiasm and excitement by Hindus all over the world.
Some of the key rituals and traditions associated with Holi include:
On the eve of Holi, people light a bonfire to symbolise the burning of the demoness Holika, who tried to kill the young Prahlad, a devotee of Lord Vishnu.
In South India, Kama Deva is worshipped for making supreme sacrifice for universal peace and prosperity. To symbolise Kama Deva’s burning when suffered the wrath of Lord Shiva, the ritual of Kama Dahan is performed.
On the day of Holi, people smear each other with brightly coloured powders and water, using water guns, buckets, and even balloons. This is a fun and joyous activity that brings people together and promotes unity and love.
People enjoy festive foods and drinks, such as gujiya, thandai, and bhang, which are prepared especially for the occasion.
