Holi

Holi, popularly known as the 'Festival of Colors', is a vibrant and joyous Hindu festival celebrated to mark the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. It is celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the month of Phalguna.

Significance

Holi is a time when social barriers are forgotten, and people unite in a spirit of playfulness. It has several layers of significance:

• Victory of Prahlad: Commemorates the survival of Prahlad and the burning of the demoness Holika, representing the triumph of devotion over ego.
• Divine Love: In the Braj region (Mathura/Vrindavan), it celebrates the eternal love of Radha and Krishna.
• Harvest Festival: It marks the end of winter and the prosperity of the spring harvest.

Key Traditions

• Holika Dahan: On the eve of Holi, large bonfires are lit to symbolize the destruction of evil.
• Playing with Colors: People smear each other with colored powders (Gulal) and colored water, symbolizing the colors of spring.
• Festive Foods: Special delicacies like Gujiya, Malpua, and Thandai are prepared and shared.
• Social Harmony: It is traditional to forgive old grievances and renew relationships.

Regional Celebrations

• Lathmar Holi: Barsana and Nandgaon (Uttar Pradesh)
• Hola Mohalla: Punjab (celebrated by Sikhs)
• Dol Jatra: West Bengal and Odisha
• Shigmo: Goa