Millions Celebrate Hindu Festival of Colors
New Delhi — Millions of Indians in parts of the country’s north and central regions celebrated the Hindu festival of Holi on Monday. This vibrant festival, also known as the festival of colors, signifies the end of winter and the arrival of spring. Celebrated on the last full moon day of the Hindu lunisolar calendar month of Falgun, Holi brings families and friends together to smear powdered colors on each other’s faces and drench each other in colored water. The festivities involve singing, dancing to drum beats at private parties, and public revelry, sometimes even involving strangers attacking with colored water.
Symbolism in Tradition
The festival’s origin lies in Hindu mythology, particularly the legend of Holika and King Hiranyakashipu. King Hiranyakashipu, claiming to be a god, sought to eliminate his son Prahlada for refusing to worship him. With the help of Holika, they attempted to burn Prahlada on a pyre, but he survived miraculously while Holika perished in the flames. This victory of good over evil is central to the festival’s significance.
Bonfires and Festivities
On the eve of Holi, many Hindus light bonfires symbolizing the burning of Holika. In Gujarat, a massive 200-ton wood bonfire was lit, signifying the triumph of good over evil. Holi is a public holiday in India and is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals, alongside Diwali. The festival is also observed in Nepal and in Hindu communities worldwide, including the vibrant celebrations in the city of New York.