One of the liveliest and most joyous festivals in celebrated in India as per Hindu calendar is Holi, also known as the Festival of Colours. In parts of India like West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura, it is called Dol Jatra or Basanta Utsav, and it is celebrated with great fervour by Indians all over the world. Holi, which marks the beginning of spring and the end of winter according to the Gregorian calendar, often falls in late February or March in Hinduism, coinciding with the full moon or Purnima on the evening of the Phalguna month. Holi is set to take place on Monday, March 25th this year. Choti Holi is the first of two days of festivities, which are followed by Dulhendi or Badi Holi, also called Rang Wali Holi.
History and Significance
The festival gets its name from Holika, the demoness sister of the evil King Hiranyakashyap. Legend has it that Prahlada, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, was saved from Hiranyakashipu's sinister plot with the aid of Holika. This tale underscores the victory of good over evil, a central theme of Holi.
Holi's significance extends beyond its mythological origins; it heralds the arrival of spring, symbolizing the triumph of colours over winter's drabness. Moreover, Holi fosters cultural unity, transcending religious and social barriers. Special sweets like gujiya and beverages such as thandai add to the festive fervour. The festival begins with Holika Dahan, where communities gather for bonfires symbolizing the eradication of evil spirits. The next day, known as Dhulendi, is marked by the playful splashing of colour powders known as gulal and water, representing the spreading of love and joy.
Date and Time
This year, Holi falls on Monday, March 25th. The festival is observed over two days, starting with Holika Dahan on Sunday, March 24th. The auspicious time for Holika Dahan is from 7:19 PM to 9:38 PM on March 24th.
Puja Vidhi
In the Puja Vidhi, the burning log is wrapped in a white thread and practices are done on it to make it holy before it is lit. This means that the soul is being cleansed and bad things are being pushed away.
Celebrations
The next day, Dhulendi, is marked by using water guns and balloons filled with coloured water to smear coloured powder (gulal) on each other. This is meant to represent the spreading of love and happiness. Traditional sweets like gujiya and drinks like thandai are enjoyed by many during the Holi festival. People in the community get together for the holiday because of these tasty treats. During the festival, friends and family get together to eat delicious food and enjoy the fun atmosphere. People use coloured powders and water to mark the event, and everyone has a great time getting into the holiday spirit.