Праздник холли на английском языке

«Basanta Utsav» and «Holli» redirect here. For the film, see Basanta Utsav (film). For the ice hockey player, see Antti Hölli.

Holi
Krishna playing Holi with Radha and other gopis
Observed by	Hindus,[1] Sikhs, Jains,[2][3] and others[4]
Type	Religious, cultural, spring festival
Celebrations	Night after ((Holika Dahan)), Kama Dahan On Holi: spraying coloured dye, playing with coloured powder, dancing, greetings, festival delicacies[5]
Date	māsa (amānta) / māsa (purnimānta), pakṣa, tithi
2022 date	17-18 March in India[6][7] 17-18 March in Nepal[8]
Frequency	Annual
Related to	Hola Mohalla

Explanatory note

Hindu festival dates The Hindu calendar is lunisolar but most festival dates are specified using the lunar portion of the calendar. A lunar day is uniquely identified by three calendar elements: māsa (lunar month), pakṣa (lunar fortnight) and tithi (lunar day). Furthermore, when specifying the masa, one of two traditions are applicable, viz. amānta / pūrṇimānta. Iff a festival falls in the waning phase of the moon, these two traditions identify the same lunar day as falling in two different (but successive) masa. A lunar year is shorter than a solar year by about eleven days. As a result, most Hindu festivals occur on different days in successive years on the Gregorian calendar.

v t e

Holi () is an ancient Hindu tradition and also one of the most popular festivals in Hinduism.^[1][9] It celebrates the eternal and divine love of Radha Krishna.^[10][11]
The day also signifies the triumph of good over evil,^[12][13] as it commemorates the victory of Lord Vishnu as Narasimha Narayana over Hiranyakashipu.^[14][15] It originated and is predominantly celebrated in the Indian subcontinent but has also spread to other regions of Asia and parts of the Western world through the Indian diaspora.^{[16][17][18][19][20][21]}

Holi celebrates the arrival of spring, the end of winter, the blossoming of love and for many, it is a festive day to meet others, play and laugh, forget and forgive, and repair broken relationships.^[17][22] The festival is also an invocation for a good spring harvest season.^[17][22] It lasts for a night and a day, starting on the evening of the Purnima (Full Moon Day) falling in the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna, which falls around the middle of March in the Gregorian calendar. The first evening is known as «Holika Dahan» or «Chhoti Holi» and the following day as «Holi», «Rangwali Holi», «Dol Purnima», «Dhuleti», «Dhulandi»,^[23] «Ukuli», «Manjal Kuli»,^[24] «Yaosang», «Shigmo»,^[25] «Phagwah»,^[26] or «Jajiri».^[27]

Holi celebrations are also known as the Festival of Colours, the Festival of Spring, and the Festival of Love.^[1][16][28] Holi celebrations start on the night before Holi with a Holika Dahan where people gather, perform religious rituals in front of a bonfire, and pray that their internal evil be destroyed the way Holika, the sister of the demon king Hiranyakashipu, was killed in the fire. The next morning is celebrated as Rangwali Holi (Dhuleti) where people smear and drench each other with colours. Water guns and water-filled balloons are often used to play and colour each other, with anyone and anyplace being considered fair game to color. Groups often carry drums and other musical instruments going from place to place singing and dancing. Throughout the day people visit family, and friends and foes come together to chat, enjoy food and drink, and partake in Holi delicacies.^[29][30]

Cultural significance[edit]

The Holi festival has a cultural significance among various Hindu traditions of the Indian subcontinent. It is the festive day to end and rid oneself of past errors, to end conflicts by meeting others, a day to forget and forgive. People pay or forgive debts, as well as deal anew with those in their lives. Holi also marks the start of spring, an occasion for people to enjoy the changing seasons and make new friends.^[22][31]

Radha Krishna[edit]

In the Braj region of India, where the Hindu deities Radha and Krishna grew up, the festival is celebrated until Rang Panchmi in commemoration of their divine love for each other. The festivities officially usher in spring, with Holi celebrated as a festival of love.^[10][32] Garga Samhita, a puranic work by Sage Garga was the first literature to mention the romantic description of Radha and Krishna playing Holi.^[33] There is also a popular symbolic legend behind the festival. In his youth, Krishna despaired whether the fair-skinned Radha would like him because of his dark skin colour. His mother Yashoda, tired of his desperation, asks him to approach Radha and ask her to colour his face in any colour she wanted. This Radha did, and Radha and Krishna became a couple. Ever since, the playful colouring of Radha and Krishna’s face has been commemorated as Holi.^[11][34] Beyond India, these legends help to explain the significance of Holi (Phagwah) are common in some Caribbean and South American communities of Indian origin such as Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.^[35][36] It is also celebrated with great fervour in Mauritius.^[37]

Vishnu[edit]

There is a symbolic legend to explain why Holi is celebrated as a festival of triumph of good over evil in the honour of Hindu god Vishnu and his devotee Prahlada. King Hiranyakashipu father of Prahlada, according to a legend found in chapter 7 of Bhagavata Purana,^[14][15] was the king of demonic Asuras, and had earned a boon that gave him five special powers: he could be killed by neither a human being nor an animal, neither indoors nor outdoors, neither at day nor at night, neither by astra (projectile weapons) nor by any shastra (handheld weapons), and neither on land nor in water or air. Hiranyakashipu grew arrogant, thought he was God, and demanded that everyone worship only him.^[5]
Hiranyakashipu’s own son, Prahlada, however, disagreed. He was and remained devoted to Vishnu.^[29] This infuriated Hiranyakashipu. He subjected Prahlada to cruel punishments, none of which affected the boy or his resolve to do what he thought was right. Finally, Holika, Prahlada’s evil aunt, tricked him into sitting on a pyre with her.^[5] Holika was wearing a cloak that made her immune to injury from fire, while Prahlada was not. As the fire roared, the cloak flew from Holika and encased Prahlada,^[29] who survived while Holika burned. Vishnu, the god who appears as an avatar to restore Dharma in Hindu beliefs, took the form of Narasimha – half human and half lion (which is neither a human nor an animal), at dusk (when it was neither day nor night), took Hiranyakashyapu at a doorstep (which was neither indoors nor outdoors), placed him on his lap (which was neither land, water nor air), and then eviscerated and killed the king with his lion claws (which were neither a handheld weapon nor a launched weapon).^[38]

The Holika bonfire and Holi signifies the celebration of the symbolic victory of good over evil, of Prahlada over Hiranyakashipu, and of the fire that burned Holika.^[22]

Kama and Rati[edit]

Among other Hindu traditions such as Shaivism and Shaktism, the legendary significance of Holi is linked to Shiva in yoga and deep meditation. Goddess Parvati wanting to bring back Shiva into the world, seeks help from the Hindu god of love called Kamadeva on Vasant Panchami. The love god shoots arrows at Shiva, the yogi opens his third eye and burns Kama to ashes. This upsets both Kama’s wife Rati (Kamadevi) and his own wife Parvati. Rati performs her own meditative asceticism for forty days, upon which Shiva understands, forgives out of compassion and restores the god of love. This return of the god of love, is celebrated on the 40th day after Vasant Panchami festival as Holi.^[39][40] The Kama legend and its significance to Holi has many variant forms, particularly in South India.^[41]

Other Indian religions[edit]

The festival has traditionally been also observed by non-Hindus, such as by Jains^[2] (Nepal).^[3]

In Mughal India, Holi was celebrated with such exuberance that people of all castes could throw colour on the Emperor.^[42] According to Sharma (2017), «there are several paintings of Mughal emperors celebrating Holi».^[43] Grand celebrations of Holi were held at the Lal Qila, where the festival was also known as Eid-e-gulaabi or Aab-e-Pashi.^[42] Mehfils were held throughout the walled city of Delhi with aristocrats and traders alike participating.^[42] This changed during the rule of Emperor Aurangzeb. He banned the public celebration of Holi using a Farman issue in November 1665.^[44] However, the celebration were later restarted after the death of Emperor Aurangzeb. Bahadur Shah Zafar himself wrote a song for the festival, while poets such as Amir Khusrau, Ibrahim Raskhan, Nazeer Akbarabadi and Mehjoor Lakhnavi relished it in their writings.^[42]

Sikhs have traditionally celebrated the festival, at least through the 19th century,^[45] with its historic texts referring to it as Hola.^[46] Guru Gobind Singh – the last human guru of the Sikhs – modified Holi with a three-day Hola Mohalla extension festival of martial arts. The extension started the day after the Holi festival in Anandpur Sahib, where Sikh soldiers would train in mock battles, compete in horsemanship, athletics, archery and military exercises.^[47][48][49]

Holi was observed by Maharaja Ranjit Singh and his Sikh Empire that extended across what are now northern parts of India and Pakistan. According to a report by Tribune India, Sikh court records state that 300 mounds of colours were used in 1837 by Ranjit Singh and his officials in Lahore. Ranjit Singh would celebrate Holi with others in the Bilawal gardens, where decorative tents were set up. In 1837, Sir Henry Fane who was the commander-in-chief of the British Indian army joined the Holi celebrations organised by Ranjit Singh. A mural in the Lahore Fort was sponsored by Ranjit Singh and it showed the Hindu god Krishna playing Holi with gopis. After the death of Ranjit Singh, his Sikh sons and others continued to play Holi every year with colours and lavish festivities. The colonial British officials joined these celebrations.^[50]

Description[edit]

Holi is a sacred ancient tradition of Hindus, a national holiday in India and Nepal with regional holidays in other countries. To many Hindus and some non-Hindus, it is a playful cultural event and an excuse to throw coloured water at friends or strangers in jest. It is also observed broadly in the Indian subcontinent. Holi is celebrated at the end of winter, on the last full moon day of the Hindu luni-solar calendar month marking the spring, making the date vary with the lunar cycle.^{[note 1]} The date falls typically in March, but sometimes late February of the Gregorian calendar.^[53][54]

The festival has many purposes; most prominently, it celebrates the beginning of Spring. In 17th century literature, it was identified as a festival that celebrated agriculture, commemorated good spring harvests and the fertile land.^[17] Hindus believe it is a time of enjoying spring’s abundant colours and saying farewell to winter. To many Hindus, Holi festivities mark an occasion to reset and renew ruptured relationships, end conflicts and rid themselves of accumulated emotional impurities from the past.^[22][31]

It also has a religious purpose, symbolically signified by the legend of Holika. The night before Holi, bonfires are lit in a ceremony known as Holika Dahan (burning of Holika) or Little Holi People gather near fires, sing and dance. The next day, Holi, also known as Dhuli in Sanskrit, or Dhulheti, Dhulandi or Dhulendi, is celebrated.^[55]

In Northern parts of India, Children and youth spray coloured powder solutions (gulal) at each other, laugh and celebrate, while adults smear dry coloured powder (abir) on each other’s faces.^[5][31] Visitors to homes are first teased with colours, then served with Holi delicacies (such as puranpoli, dahi-bada and gujia), desserts and drinks.^[30][56][57] After playing with colours, and cleaning up, people bathe, put on clean clothes, and visit friends and family.^[22]

Like Holika Dahan, Kama Dahanam is celebrated in some parts of India. The festival of colours in these parts is called Rangapanchami, and occurs on the fifth day after Poornima (full moon).^[58]

History and rituals[edit]

The Holi festival is an ancient Hindu festival with its cultural rituals. It is mentioned in the Puranas, Dasakumara Charita, and by the poet Kālidāsa during the 4th century reign of Chandragupta II.^[16] The celebration of Holi is also mentioned in the 7th-century Sanskrit drama Ratnavali.^[59] The festival of Holi caught the fascination of European traders and British colonial staff by the 17th century. Various old editions of Oxford English Dictionary mention it, but with varying, phonetically derived spellings: Houly (1687), Hooly (1698), Huli (1789), Hohlee (1809), Hoolee (1825), and Holi in editions published after 1910.^[17]

There are several cultural rituals associated with Holi:^[60]

Holika Dahan[edit]

Preparation[edit]

Days before the festival, people start gathering wood and combustible materials for the bonfire in parks, community centers, near temples and other open spaces. On top of the pyre is an effigy to signify Holika who tricked Prahalad into the fire. Inside homes, people stock up on pigments, food, party drinks and festive seasonal foods such as gujiya, mathri, malpuas and other regional delicacies.

Bonfire[edit]

On the eve of Holi, typically at or after sunset, the pyre is lit, signifying Holika Dahan. The ritual symbolises the victory of good over evil. People gather around the fire to sing and dance.^[22]

Playing with colours[edit]

In North and Western India, Holi frolic and celebrations begin the morning after the Holika bonfire. Children and young people form groups armed with dry colours, coloured solution and water guns (pichkaris), water balloons filled with coloured water, and other creative means to colour their targets.^[60]

Traditionally, washable natural plant-derived colours such as turmeric, neem, dhak, and kumkum were used, but water-based commercial pigments are increasingly used nowadays. All colours are used. Everyone in open areas such as, streets and parks is game, but inside homes or at doorways only dry powder is used to smear each other’s face. People throw colours and get their targets completely coloured up. It is like a water fight, but with coloured water. People take delight in spraying coloured water on each other. By late morning, everyone looks like a canvas of colours. This is why Holi is given the name «Festival of Colours».

Groups sing and dance, some playing drums and dholak. After each stop of fun and play with colours, people offer gujiya, mathri, malpuas and other traditional delicacies.^[61] Cold drinks, including drinks made with marijuana,^[62] are also part of the Holi festivity.

Other variations[edit]

In the Braj region around Mathura, in north India, the festivities may last more than a week. The rituals go beyond playing with colours, and include a day where men go around with shields and women have the right to playfully beat them on their shields with sticks.^[63] It is known as Latthmaar Holi, traditionally celebrated in the Barsana village. Barsana is the village of Radha and women assume the role of gopikas (Radha’s friends) and men as gopas (Krishna’s friends).

In southern India, some worship and make offerings to Kamadeva, the god of love in Indian mythology.

Later in the day[edit]

After a day of play with colours, people clean up, wash and bathe, sober up and dress up in the evening and greet friends and relatives by visiting them and exchanging sweets. Holi is also a festival of forgiveness and new starts, which ritually aims to generate harmony in society.^[60] Many cities in Uttar Pradesh also organise Kavi Sammelan in the evening.

Regional names, rituals and celebrations[edit]

Holi (Hindi: होली, Kannada: ಹೋಳಿ, Marathi: होळी, Nepali: होली, Punjabi: ਹੋਲੀ, Telugu: హోళి) is also known as Basanto Utsav (Bengali: বসন্ত উত্সব) («Spring festival») in West Bengal and Assam; Festival of Colours, or Dol Jatra (Assamese: দ’ল যাত্ৰা) in Assam, Phagu Purnima (Nepali: फागु पूर्णिमा) in hilly region of Nepal, Dola jātra (Odia: ଦୋଳଯାତ୍ରା) in Odisha; also known as Phakuwa or Phagwah (Assamese: ফাকুৱা). The customs and celebrations vary between regions of India.

Holi is of particular significance in the Braj region, which includes locations traditionally associated with the Krishna: Mathura, Vrindavan, Nandgaon, Uttar Pradesh, and Barsana, which become touristic during the season of Holi.^[32]

Outside India and Nepal, Holi is observed by Hindus in Bangladesh and Pakistan as well in countries with large Indian subcontinent diaspora populations such as Suriname, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, South Africa, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, Mauritius, and Fiji. The Holi rituals and customs outside South Asia also vary with local adaptations.

Celebrations[edit]

India[edit]

Bihar/Jharkhand[edit]

Holi is known as Phaguwa in the local Bhojpuri dialect. In this region as well, the legend of Holika is prevalent. On the eve of Phalgun Poornima, people light bonfires. They put dried cow dung cakes, wood of the Araad or Redi tree and Holika tree, grains from the fresh harvest and unwanted wood leaves in the bonfire. At the time of Holika people assemble near the pyre. The eldest member of the gathering or a purohit initiates the lighting. He then smears others with colour as a mark of greeting. Next day the festival is celebrated with colours and a lot of frolic. Traditionally, people also clean their houses to mark the festival.^[64]

Holi Milan is also observed in Bihar, where family members and well-wishers visit each other’s family, apply colours (abeer) on each other’s faces, and on feet, if elderly. Usually, this takes place on the evening of Holi, day after Holi with wet colours is played in the morning through the afternoon. Due to large-scale internal migration issues faced by the people, recently, this tradition has slowly begun to transform, and it is common to have Holi Milan on an entirely different day either before or after the actual day of Holi.^[65]

Children and youths take extreme delight in the festival. Though the festival is usually celebrated with colours, in some places, people also enjoy celebrating Holi with water solutions of mud or clay. Folk songs are sung at high pitch and people dance to the sound of the dholak (a two-headed hand-drum) and the spirit of Holi. Intoxicating bhang, made from cannabis, milk and spices, is consumed with a variety of mouth-watering delicacies, such as pakoras and thandai, to enhance the mood of the festival.^[66]

Goa[edit]

Holi is locally called Ukkuli in Konkani. It is celebrated around the Konkani temple called Gosripuram temple. It is a part of the Goan or Konkani spring festival known as Śigmo or शिगमो in Koṅkaṇī or Śiśirotsava, which lasts for about a month. The colour festival or Holi is a part of longer, more extensive spring festival celebrations.^[67] Holi festivities (but not Śigmo festivities) include: Holika Puja and Dahan, Dhulvad or Dhuli vandan, Haldune or offering yellow and saffron colour or Gulal to the deity.

Gujarat[edit]

In Gujarat, Holi is a two-day festival. On the evening of the first day people light the bonfire. People offer raw coconut and corn to the fire. The second day is the festival of colour or «Dhuleti», celebrated by sprinkling coloured water and applying colours to each other. Dwarka, a coastal city of Gujarat, celebrates Holi at the Dwarkadheesh temple and with citywide comedy and music festivities.^[68] Falling in the Hindu month of Phalguna, Holi marks the agricultural season of the rabi crop.

In some places, there is a custom in undivided Hindu families that the woman beats her brother-in-law with a sari rolled up into a rope in a mock rage and tries to drench him with colours, and in turn, the brother-in-law brings sweets (Indian desserts) to her in the evening.^[69]

Jammu and Kashmir[edit]

In Jammu and Kashmir, Holi celebrations are much in line with the general definition of Holi celebrations: a high-spirited festival to mark the beginning of the harvesting of the summer crop, with the throwing of coloured water and powder and singing and dancing.^[70]

Karnataka[edit]

Traditionally, in rural Karnataka, children collect money and wood in the weeks prior to Holi, and on «Kamadahana» night, all the wood is put together and lit. The festival is celebrated for two days. People in northern parts of Karnataka prepare special food on this day.

In Sirsi, Karnataka, Holi is celebrated with a unique folk dance called «Bedara Vesha», which is performed during the nights beginning five days before the actual festival day. The festival is celebrated every alternate year in the town, which attracts a large number of tourists from different parts of India.^[71]

Maharashtra[edit]

In Maharashtra, Holi Purnima is also celebrated as Shimga, festivities that last five to seven days. A week before the festival, youngsters go around the community, collecting firewood and money. On the day of Shimga, the firewood is heaped into a huge pile in each neighbourhood. In the evening, the fire is lit. Every household brings a meal and dessert, in the honour of the fire god. Puran Poli is the main delicacy and children shout «Holi re Holi puranachi poli». Shimga celebrates the elimination of all evil. The colour celebrations here take place on the day of Rang Panchami, five days after Shimga. During this festival, people are supposed to forget and forgive any rivalries and start new healthy relations with all.

Manipur[edit]

Manipuris celebrate Holi for 6 days. Here, this holiday merges with the festival of Yaosang. Traditionally, the festival commences with the burning of a thatched hut of hay and twigs. Young children go from house to house to collect money, locally known as nakadeng (or nakatheng), as gifts on the first two days. The youths at night perform a group folk dance called Thabal chongba on the full moon night of Lamta (Phalgun), traditionally accompanied by folk songs and rhythmic beats of the indigenous drum, but nowadays by modern bands and fluorescent lamps. In Krishna temples, devotees sing devotional songs, perform dances and celebrate with aber (gulal) wearing traditional white and yellow turbans. On the last day of the festival, large processions are taken out to the main Krishna temple near Imphal where several cultural activities are held. In recent decades, Yaosang, a type of Indian sport, has become common in many places of the valley, where people of all ages come out to participate in a number of sports that are somewhat altered for the holiday.

Odisha[edit]

The people of Odisha celebrate «Dola» on the day of Holi where the icons of Jagannath replace the icons of Krishna and Radha. Dola Melana, processions of the deities are celebrated in villages and bhoga is offered to the deities. «Dola yatra» was prevalent even before 1560 much before Holi was started where the idols of Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra used to be taken to the «Dolamandapa» (podium in Jagannath temple).^[73] People used to offer natural colours known as «abira» to the deities and apply on each other’s feats.^[74]

Punjab[edit]

In Punjab, the eight days preceding Holi are known as luhatak.^[75] Sekhon (2000) states that people start throwing colours many days before Holi.^[76]

Holi is preceded by Holika Dahan the night before when a fire is lit. Historically, the Lubana community of Punjab celebrated holi «with great pomp and show. The Lubanas buried a pice and betel nut. They heaped up cow-dung cakes over the spot and made a large fire. When the fire had burnt out, they proceeded to hunt for the pice and betel-nut. Whosoever found these, was considered very lucky.»^[77] Elsewhere in Punjab, Holi was also associated with making fools of others. Bose writing in Cultural Anthropology: And Other Essays in 1929 noted that «the custom of playing Holi-fools is prevalent in Punjab».^[78]

On the day of Holi, people engage in throwing colours^[79] on each other.^[80] For locals, Holi marks the end of winter. The Punjabi saying Phaggan phal laggan (Phagun is the month for fructifying) exemplifies the seasonal aspect of Holi. Trees and plants start blossoming from the day of Basant and start bearing fruit by Holi.^[81]

During Holi in Punjab, walls and courtyards of rural houses are enhanced with drawings and paintings similar to rangoli in South India, mandana in Rajasthan, and rural arts in other parts of India. This art is known as chowk-poorana or chowkpurana in Punjab and is given shape by the peasant women of the state. In courtyards, this art is drawn using a piece of cloth. The art includes drawing tree motifs, flowers, ferns, creepers, plants, peacocks, palanquins, geometric patterns along with vertical, horizontal and oblique lines. These arts add to the festive atmosphere.^[82]

Folk theatrical performances known as swang or nautanki take place during Holi,^[83] with the latter originating in the Punjab.^[84] According to Self (1993), Holi fairs are held in the Punjab which may go on for many days.^[85] Bose (1961) states that «in some parts of Punjab, Holi is celebrated with wrestling matches».^[86]

Tamil Nadu[edit]

In Tamil Nadu, it is celebrated as the Panguni Uthiram festival that signifies the blossoming of love and marriage. Rati and Kamadeva are worshipped in many parts. Temples also celebrate the marriages of Parvati and Parameswara, Murugan and Deivanai, Kodhai Aandaal and Rangamannar on this day. In the Sarangapani temple in Kumbakonam, Narayana marries Komalavalli Naachiyar and gave Kalyana Kola Seva to his Bhakthas on this day. Valmiki’s Ramayana says it is on this day that Sita’s marriage with Rama was celebrated. Devotees throng to temples to witness the divine wedding ceremonies. It is also an auspicious date for engagements and weddings to finalise. From Brahmanda Puranam, it is said that on this Panguni Uthiram, all holy waters join the seven sacred tanks in Tirupati Tirumala.

Telangana[edit]

Holi is called as Kamuni Punnami/Kama Purnima or Jajiri in Telugu. Hindus celebrate Holi as it relates to the legend of Kamadeva. Holi is also known by different names: Kamavilas, Kamuni Panduga and Kama-Dahanam.^[87]

It is a 10-day festival in Telangana, of which last two days are of great importance. As in other parts of India, in rural Telangana, the 9 days preceding Holi, children celebrate kamuda by playing Kolata sticks along with singing folk songs called jajiri and collect money, rice, corn and wood.^[27] For this reason Holi is well known for «Jajiri Paatalu Kamudi aatalu», which means festival of «Jajiri songs and Kamudi games» and on 9th night i.e. Holy eve, all the wood is put together and set on fire representing Kama Dahanam.

Next morning i.e. 10th day is celebrated as Holi, with colours traditionally extracted from Moduga/Gogu Flowers (Palash/Butea monosperma).^[88]

Tripura[edit]

In Tripura Holi is known as «Pali» which means colour in Tripuri language, it’s celebrated all over Tripura.

Uttar Pradesh[edit]

• 

  Colour drenched gopis in Krishna Temple, Mathura, India.

• 

  In the Braj region of North India, women have the option to playfully hit men who save themselves with shields; for the day, men are culturally expected to accept whatever women dish out to them. This ritual is called Lath Mar Holi.^[89]

• 

  A play of colours then a dance at a Hindu temple near Mathura, at Holi.

Barsana, a town near Mathura in the Braj region of Uttar Pradesh, celebrates Lathmar Holi in the sprawling compound of the Radha Rani temple. Thousands gather to witness the Lath Mar Holi when women beat up men with sticks as those on the sidelines become hysterical, sing Holi songs and shout «Radhe Radhe» or «Sri Radhe Krishna».^[90] The Holi songs of Braj Mandal are sung in pure Braj, the local language. Holi celebrated at Barsana is unique in the sense that here women chase men away with sticks. Males also sing provocative songs in a bid to invite the attention of women. Women then go on the offensive and use long staves called lathis to beat the men, who protect themselves with shields.^[91]

Mathura, in the Braj region, is the birthplace of Krishna. In Vrindavan this day is celebrated with special puja and the traditional custom of worshipping Radha Krishna; here the festival lasts for sixteen days.^[32] All over the Braj region^[92] and neighbouring places like Hathras, Aligarh, and Agra, Holi is celebrated in more or less the same way as in Mathura, Vrindavan and Barsana.

A traditional celebration includes Matki Phod, similar to Dahi Handi in Maharashtra and Gujarat during Krishna Janmashtami, both in the memory of god Krishna who is also called makhan chor (literally, butter thief). This is a historic tradition of the Braj region as well as the western region of India.^[93] An earthen pot filled with butter or other milk products is hung high by a rope. Groups of boys and men climb on each other’s shoulders to form pyramids to reach and break it, while girls and women sing songs and throw coloured water on the pyramid to distract them and make their job harder.^[94] This ritual sport continues in Hindu diaspora communities.^[95]

Outside Braj, in the Kanpur area, Holi lasts seven days with colour. On the last day, a grand fair called Ganga Mela or the Holi Mela is celebrated. This Mela (fair) was started by freedom fighters who fought British rule in the First Indian War of Independence in 1857 under the leadership of Nana Saheb. The Mela is held at various ghats along the banks of the River Ganga in Kanpur, to celebrate the Hindus and Muslims who together resisted the British forces in the city in 1857. On the eve of Ganga Mela, all government offices, shops, and courts generally remain closed. The Ganga Mela marks the official end of «The Festival of Colours» or Holi in Kanpur.^{[citation needed]}

In Gorakhpur, the northeast district of Uttar Pradesh, the day of Holi starts with a special puja. This day, called «Holi Milan», is considered to be the most colourful day of the year, promoting brotherhood among the people. People visit every house and sing Holi songs and express their gratitude by applying coloured powder (Abeer).

Uttarakhand[edit]

Kumaoni Holi in Uttarakhand includes a musical affair. It takes different forms such as the Baithki Holi, the Khari Holi and the Mahila Holi. In Baithki Holi and Khari Holi, people sing songs with a touch of melody, fun, and spiritualism. These songs are essentially based on classical ragas. Baithki Holi (बैठकी होली), also known as Nirvan Ki Holi, begins from the premises of temples, where Holiyars (होल्यार) sing Holi songs and people gather to participate, along with playing classical music. The songs are sung in a particular sequence depending on the time of day; for instance, at noon the songs are based on Peelu, Bhimpalasi and Sarang ragas, while evening songs are based on the ragas such as Kalyan, Shyamkalyan and Yaman. The Khari Holi (खड़ी होली) is mostly celebrated in the rural areas of Kumaon. The songs of the Khari Holi are sung by the people, who, sporting traditional white churidar payajama and kurta, dance in groups to the tune of ethnic musical instruments such as the dhol and hurka.^[96]

In the Kumaon region, the Holika pyre, known as Cheer (चीर), is ceremonially built in a ceremony known as Cheer Bandhan (चीर बंधन) fifteen days before Dulhendi. The Cheer is a bonfire with a green Paiya tree branch in the middle. The Cheer of every village and neighbourhood is rigorously guarded as rival mohallas try to playfully steal each other’s cheer.^[97]

The colours used on Holi are derived from natural sources. Dulhendi, known as Charadi (छरड़ी) (from Chharad (छरड़)), is made from flower extracts, ash and water. Holi is celebrated with great gusto much in the same way all across North India.^[98]

West Bengal[edit]

In West Bengal, Holi is known by the name of «Dol Jatra», «Dol Purnima» or the «Swing Festival». The festival is celebrated in a dignified manner by placing the icons of Radha and Krishna on a picturesquely decorated palanquin which is then taken round the main streets of the city or the village. On the Dol Purnima day in the early morning, students(mainly in Shantiniketan) dress up in saffron-coloured or pure white clothes and wear garlands of fragrant flowers. They sing and dance to the accompaniment of musical instruments, such as the ektara, dubri, and Veena. The devotees take turns to swing them while women dance around the swing and sing songs. During these activities, the people keep throwing coloured water and dry colours, abir, at them.^{[citation needed]}

Nepal[edit]

• 

  Preparing for Holika Dahan, Kathamandu, Nepal.

• 

  Women celebrating Holi in Kathmandu, Nepal.

• 

  Tourists celebrating Holi in Pokhara, Nepal (2012)

Holi, also known as Phagu Purnima, along with many other Hindu festivals, is celebrated in Nepal as a national festival. It is an important major Nepal-wide festival along with Dashain and Tihar (Dipawali).^[99] It is celebrated in the Nepali month of Falgun (Terai region celebrates on the same date as Indian Holi, while rest of the country celebrates it a day earlier), and signifies the legends of the Hindu god Krishna.^[99] They worship Saraswati shrine in Vajrayogini temples and celebrate the festival with their Hindu friends.^[100]

Traditional concerts are held in most cities in Nepal, including Kathmandu, Narayangarh, Pokhara, Itahari, Hetauda, and Dharan, and are broadcast on television with various celebrity guests.

People walk through their neighbourhoods to celebrate Holi by exchanging colours and spraying coloured water on one another. A popular activity is the throwing of water balloons at one another, sometimes called lola (meaning water balloon).^[101] Many people mix bhang (made from cannabis, milk and spices) in their drinks and food, as is also done during Shivaratri. It is believed that the combination of different colours at this festival takes all sorrow away and makes life itself more colourful.

Pakistan[edit]

Holi is celebrated by the minority Hindu population in Pakistan. Community events by Hindus have been reported by Pakistani media in various cities such as Karachi,^[102] Hazara,^[103] Rawalpindi, Sindh, Hyderabad, Multan and Lahore.^[104] The Hindu tribes of Cholistan in the Punjab province of Pakistan play the game called Khido in the days leading up to the Holi. The game Khido is considered sacred by them as it is believed that Parhlad used to play this game during his childhood.^[105]

Holi was not a public holiday in Pakistan from 1947 to 2016. Holi along with Diwali for Hindus, and Easter for Christians, was adopted as public holiday resolution by Pakistan’s parliament in 2016, giving the local governments and public institutions the right to declare Holi as a holiday and grant leave for its minority communities, for the first time.^[106] This decision has been controversial, with some Pakistanis welcoming the decision, while others criticising it, with the concern that declaring Holi a public holiday advertises a Hindu festival to Pakistani children.^[107]

Indian diaspora[edit]

• 

  Drummers of Indo-Caribbean community celebrating Phagwah (Holi) in New York City, 2013.

• 

  A celebration of Holi Festival in the United States.

Over the years, Holi has become an important festival in many regions wherever Indian diaspora were either taken as indentured labourers during colonial era, or where they emigrated on their own, and are now present in large numbers such as in Africa, North America, Europe, Latin America, and parts of Asia such as Fiji.^{[20][21][108][109]}

Suriname[edit]

Holi is a national holiday in Suriname. It is called Phagwa festival, and is celebrated to mark the beginning of spring and Hindu mythology. In Suriname, Holi Phagwa is a festival of colour. It is customary to wear old white clothes on this day, be prepared to get them dirty and join in the colour throwing excitement and party.^[110][111]

Trinidad and Tobago[edit]

Phagwa is celebrated with a lot of colour and splendour, along with the singing on traditional Phagwah songs or Chowtal (gana).

Guyana[edit]

Phagwah is a national holiday in Guyana, and peoples of all races and religions participate in the celebrations.^[112] The main celebration in Georgetown is held at the Mandir in Prashad Nagar.^[113]

Fiji[edit]

Indo-Fijians celebrate Holi as the festival of colours, folksongs, and dances. The folksongs sung in Fiji during Holi season are called phaag gaaian. Phagan, also written as Phalgan, is the last month of the Hindu calendar. Holi is celebrated on the full moon of Phagan. Holi marks the advent of spring and ripening of crops in Northern India. Not only it is a season of romance and excitement, folk songs and dances, it is also an occasion of playing with powder, perfumes, and colours. Many of the Holi songs in Fiji are around the theme of love-relationship between Radha and Krishna.^[114]

Mauritius[edit]

Holi in Mauritius comes close on the heels of Shivaratri. It celebrates the beginning of spring, commemorating good harvests and the fertile land. Hindus believe it is a time of enjoying spring’s abundant colours and saying farewell to winter. It is considered one of the most exhilarating religious holidays in existence. During this event, participants hold a bonfire, throw coloured powder at each other, and celebrate wildly.^[115]

United States[edit]

Holi is celebrated in many US states by mainly Asian Americans, particularly those with Indian ancestry. It is usually hosted in Hindu temples or cultural halls. Members of Hindu associations and volunteers assist in hosting the event along with temple devotees. Some of the places known to celebrate Holi are New Brunswick (NJ), Spanish Fork (Utah), Houston (TX), Dallas (TX), South El Monte (CA), Milpitas (CA), Boston (MA), Potomac (MD), and Chicago (IL).^[116]

Indonesia[edit]

In Indonesia, Indian Indonesians and Balinese Hindu people celebrate Holi as festival of colours. The main celebrations are in Medan and Bali.^[117]

Sometimes the Indian immigrants from other countries may also celebrate a small-scale version of Holi.

Holi colours[edit]

Traditional sources of colours[edit]

The spring season, during which the weather changes, is believed to cause viral fever and cold. The playful throwing of natural coloured powders, called gulal has a medicinal significance: the colours are traditionally made of neem, kumkum, haldi, bilva, and other medicinal herbs suggested by Āyurvedic doctors.

Many colours are obtained by mixing primary colours. Artisans produce and sell many of the colours from natural sources in dry powder form, in weeks and months preceding Holi. Some of the traditional natural plant-based sources of colours are:^{[17][118][119]}

Orange and red[edit]

The flowers of palash or tesu tree, also called the flame of the forest, are typical source of bright red and deep orange colours. Powdered fragrant red sandalwood, dried hibiscus flowers, madder tree, radish, and pomegranate are alternate sources and shades of red. Mixing lime with turmeric powder creates an alternate source of orange powder, as does boiling saffron (kesar) in water.

Green[edit]

Mehendi and dried leaves of gulmohur tree offer a source of green colour. In some areas, the leaves of spring crops and herbs have been used as a source of green pigment.

Yellow[edit]

Haldi (turmeric) powder is the typical source of yellow colour. Sometimes this is mixed with chickpea (gram) or other flour to get the right shade. Bael fruit, amaltas, species of chrysanthemums, and species of marigold are alternate sources of yellow.

Blue[edit]

Indigo plant, Indian berries, species of grapes, blue hibiscus, and jacaranda flowers are traditional sources of blue colour for Holi.

Magenta and purple[edit]

Beetroot is the traditional source of magenta and purple colour. Often these are directly boiled in water to prepare coloured water.

Brown[edit]

Dried tea leaves offer a source of brown coloured water. Certain clays are alternate source of brown.

Black[edit]

Species of grapes, fruits of amla (gooseberry) and vegetable carbon (charcoal) offer grey to black colours.

The Holi powder[edit]

Health impact[edit]

A 2007 study found that malachite green, a synthetic bluish-green dye used in some colours during Holi festival, was responsible for severe eye irritation in Delhi, if eyes were not washed upon exposure. Though the study found that the pigment did not penetrate through the cornea, malachite green is of concern and needs further study.^[120]

Another 2009 study reports that some colours produced and sold in India contain metal-based industrial dyes, causing an increase in skin problems to some people in the days following Holi. These colours are produced in India, particularly by small informal businesses, without any quality checks and are sold freely in the market. The colours are sold without labelling, and the consumer lacks information about the source of the colours, their contents, and possible toxic effects. In recent years, several non-governmental organisations have started campaigning for safe practices related to the use of colours. Some are producing and marketing ranges of safer colours derived from natural sources such as vegetables and flowers.^[121]

These reports have galvanised a number of groups into promoting more natural celebrations of Holi. Development Alternatives, Delhi’s CLEAN India campaign,^[122] Kalpavriksh Environment Action Group, Pune,^[123] Society for Child Development through its Avacayam Cooperative Campaign^[124] have launched campaigns to help children learn to make their own colours for Holi from safer, natural ingredients. Meanwhile, some commercial companies such as the National Botanical Research Institute have begun to market «herbal» dyes, though these are substantially more expensive than the dangerous alternatives. However, it may be noted that many parts of rural India have always resorted to natural colours (and other parts of festivities more than colours) due to availability.

In urban areas, some people wear nose masks and sunglasses to avoid inhaling pigments and to prevent chemical exposure to eyes.^[125]

Environmental impact[edit]

An alleged environmental issue related to the celebration of Holi is the traditional Holika bonfire, which is believed to contribute to deforestation. Activists estimate Holika 30,000 bonfires every year during Holi, with each one burning approximately 100 kilograms (220.46 lbs) of wood.^[126] This represents less than 0.0001% of 350 million tons of wood India consumes every year, as one of the traditional fuels for cooking and other uses.^[127]

The use of heavy metal-based pigments during Holi is also reported to cause temporary wastewater pollution, with the water systems recovering to pre-festival levels within 5 days.^[128]

Application[edit]

During traditional Holi celebrations in India, Rinehart writes, colours are exchanged in person by «tenderly applying coloured powder to another person’s cheek», or by spraying and dousing others with buckets of coloured water.^[129]

Influence on other cultures[edit]

Holi is celebrated as a social event in parts of the United States.^[130] For example, at Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple in Spanish Fork, Utah, NYC Holi Hai in Manhattan, New York^[131] and Festival of Colors: Holi NYC in New York City, New York,^{[130][132][4][133]}

Holi-inspired events[edit]

A number of Holi-inspired social events have also surfaced, particularly in Europe and the United States, often organised by companies as for-profit or charity events with paid admission, and with varying scheduling that does not coincide with the actual Holi festival. These have included Holi-inspired music festivals such as the Festival Of Colours Tour and Holi One^[134] (which feature timed throws of Holi powder), and 5K run franchises such as The Color Run, Holi Run and Color Me Rad,^[135] in which participants are doused with the powder at per-kilometre checkpoints.^[136][19] The BiH Color Festival is a Holi-inspired electronic music festival held annually in Brčko, Bosnia and Herzegovina.^[137][138] In recent years, schools across Australia have also adopted Holi inspired fund raising activites which leverage fundraising platforms such as Australian Fundraising, School Fun Run and Colour Frenzy to conduct such events.

There have been concerns that these events appropriate and trivialise aspects of Holi for commercial gain—downplaying or completely ignoring the cultural and spiritual roots of the celebration.^[136][19] Organisers of these events have argued that the costs are to cover various key aspects of their events, such as safe colour powders, safety and security, and entertainment.^[19]

See also[edit]

• Lathmar Holi
• Kha b-Nisan – Assyrian New Year
• Midsummer – Holiday held close to the summer solstice
• Nowruz – Iranian new year/spring equinox festival
• Songkran (Thailand) – Traditional Khmer New Year’s holiday, famous for ritualised public water fights

Notes[edit]

References[edit]

External links[edit]

• Holi at Curlie

Holi in India is known as the Festival of Colors and it is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. This Hindu festival takes place across India as revelers throw colored powder to celebrate the triumph over good and evil.

Nowhere is Holi celebrated with more spirit than Mathura, the birthplace of the Hindu God, Lord Krishna. We celebrated Holi here and this is what it was like.

Holi India – Festival of Colors

It was march in India and were traveling in Punjab at the time wondering we should celebrate Holi. That is when our friends Julian and Becca told us that one of the best places to celebrate Holi is in Mathura, India. So we hopped on a train and took the 12-hour journey to celebrate the Festival of Colors in the birthplace of Lord Krishna 600 km away. And I’m glad we did!

What is Holi Festival?

The celebration of Holi is a Hindu festival observed across India every year. It celebrates the arrival of spring and it signifies the triumph of good over evil. While it is a Hindu festival, most Indians observe Holi. The Festival of Colors is such a vibrant and festive occasion how can you not want to take part?

During the day of Holi in India, it doesn’t matter what your caste, creed, or religion is, on this day, the India people come together as one as they throw colored powder and water through the air. When everyone is covered with the colors of the rainbow, their skin, hair, and clothing look the same creating a feeling of inclusiveness.

When is Holi Celebrated in 2022?

In 2022 the Celebration of Holi takes place on March 18 and March 19.

The dates of Holi celebrations change every year because Holi is celebrated on the eve of the full moon and the full moon day of the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna (March). This day marks the beginning of Spring. But the celebrations have extended to several days beforehand. During our time at the Holi festival in India, the colored powder and water were being spread in full force four days in advance with music blaring and people dancing in the streets.

Holika Dahan

For several days leading up to the Holi festival, people gather wood to make large bonfires that are lit on the eve of Holi known as Holika Dahan. Holi Dahan happens every year on the evening of Purnima in the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna. (aka The full moon in March and night before Holi) Holika Dahan celebrates the death of the Hindu Demon, Holika, and the victory of good over evil.

In Hinduism, the demon Holika was the sister of the Demon King, Hiranyakashipu (Hiranyakashyap) who was given immunity to fire by the Gods. Hiranyakashipu asked Holika to kill his son Prahlada by burning him alive. He hated Prahlada because of his devotion to the Hindu God, Lord Vishnu and made several attempts to murder him. But Prahlada survived.

Since the Gods had given Holika immunity to fire, she tried to kill Prahalada by sitting in a fire with him trying to burn him to death. Instead, the Gods punished Holika for using her powers for evil. She burned to death instead while Prahalada lived to rule as a wise king.

During the evening of the Holika Dahan festival people gather to light the fires to celebrate the triumph of good over evil. The fires burn late into the night and people are out dancing and celebrating to the wee hours of the morning. The entire country of India is alive with energy.

Holi in Mathura

On the day of Holi, we wandered aimlessly through the streets of Mathura because we weren’t sure where we should start. There were crowds gathering along the sidewalks, but we weren’t quite sure where the epicenter of the festivities took place.

Luckily, we stumbled across a small courtyard where a man caught our attention. He beckoned us to join the festivities inside. Never being ones to refuse an invitation, we accepted. Everyone welcomed us with open arms and smears of color.

We all came together under the colors of Lord Krishna and blended into the crowd. The Hindu God, Lord Krishna is portrayed with blue skin but the festival represents the rainbow of colors for each caste.

Holi is known as the Festival of Colors and the vibrant colors of Holi represent love. The “Holi Head of the Temple” told us that Holi is a time for India people to let go of prejudices, creeds, castes, and discrimination. We certainly felt the love at the Holi Celebrations in Matura

I believe they wanted us to have the best time possible. They even had Dave join in drumming at the Head of the Temple. The men loved holding Dave’s hands high in the air as they danced and laughed in a circle. During this festival, the men and women didn’t hold hands; instead, they only touched the same sex. Everyone had the utmost respect as children and adults alike threw handfuls of colored powder and water overhead.

Everyone in the temple wanted to dance with us. Women took turns dancing with me, swinging me around one after another and men took turns dancing with Dave. It was exhausting yet exhilarating all at once! As the only westerners in the temple, we were somewhat of a novelty, but the people of India are genuinely welcoming and friendly. If you celebrate the Holi in India, you will have one of the most memorable travel experiences of your life!

Where is Holi Celebrated?

We celebrated Holi in Mathura but Holi is celebrated across India. Northern India celebrates Holi with more vigor, but it is catching on in other parts of the country and around the world too.

1. Mathura is the number one place to celebrate Holi as it is the birthplace of the Hindu God Lord Krishna
2. Jaipur – The elephant festival is celebrated on the eve of Holi here
3. Udaipur is India’s most beautiful city and the streets come alive during the festival.
4. Goa – South India doesn’t celebrate as much as the North, but because Goa is a popular tourist destination, Holi is celebrated.
5. Hampi – this was one of our favorite places in India and they have started celebrating to appease tourists
6. Mumbai is another great place to celebrate with the Holi Pot competition to become the Holi King.
7. Delhi – The Holi Cow festival makes Delhi during this time.
8. In West Bengal – The focus more on celebrating the eternal romance of Radha and Krishna
9. Agra, in Uttar Pradesh also celebrates so if you find yourself exploring India’s most famous attraction, The Taj Mahal you can join in.
10. West Bengal –  The West Bengal Dol Jatra is celebrated on the same day as Holi. It is similar to Holi and festival goers also throw colored water to celebrate Lord Krishna and Radha.

From Agra, it is an easy trip to Mathura. Mathura is located just 50 km north of Agra just two hour by train from Delhi, an ideal location. But Holi is celebrated in all parts of India so chances are you’ll be able to join the celebrations no matter where you are in the country.

12 Tips for Celebrating Holi in India

1. Mathura is where we celebrated Holi, but no matter where you are in India, it will be celebrated.
2. Go to local parks and residential neighborhoods, or ask at your guest house where Holi is being celebrated nearby.
3. Don’t wear anything that you want to keep. Every piece of clothing will be ruined and you will have to throw it out.
4. Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts so as to have minimal skin exposed.
5. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes, but buy cheap ones that you don’t mind throwing away afterward.
6. Take off all watches and jewelry. (as you can see, I didn’t and my watch was trashed)
7. Ladies, wear your hair back or wear a scarf. My hair was pink for weeks.
8. Use only waterproof camera gear: Holi is messy. It’s not just water, but thick powder. It can ruin cameras.
9. Put everything in waterproof dry bags and only bring them out when necessary. Even GoPros can get ruined.
10. Don’t carry any valuables.
11. Make sure to have a meeting place should you get lost. The crowds are huge and you may become separated.
12. As a foreigner, you are sometimes targeted by overzealous festival-goers. They can be a little too aggressive, and some men can cross the line and grab and touch women a little too aggressively. I am sad to report that women are often groped during Holi, myself and my friend Becca included. Men can be aggressive when throwing foam or powder in your face, so be on your guard.

A word of advice, if you are going to celebrate Holi at one of the popular celebration destinations, book your hotel in advance. When we got off the train, we couldn’t believe the crowds! It is overwhelming and we had a difficult time finding a hotel.

• Hotels are quite reasonable in Mathura you can search TripAdvisor for hotels and reviews.
• We also suggest Booking.com, it is good to compare rates and reviews to make an informed decision.

Festival of Colors 

It was not a fun process cleaning up after Holi. The sun was hot and the mix of colored foam, water, and thick powders hadd baked on our skin. The mixture of colored powder and water-stained our skin and hair, and we had to scrub until our skin is raw to eventually look close to normal.

It took over an hour to clean ourselves up with the bucket and scoop bath and the four of us never quite made it back to our former selves. My hair was pink for weeks, and our feet? Well, our feet never did recover from Holi.

We tossed our clothes in the trash and found bits of powder in every crevasse of our body for days to come. But it was worth every moment. To take part in Holi while enjoying with great friends is something that we will never forget! Holi Festival is a once in a lifetime experience.

See More Festivals of the world

• The Best and Biggest Festivals Around The World
• Loy Krathong and Yi Peng 2019 – A Guide to The Lantern Festivals of Chiang Mai
• Sziget Festival – A Complete Guide to Know Before you Go
• Thaipusam – Malaysia’s Shocking Hindu Festival
• Montreal Festivals – Celebrate Canada’s Coolest City
• Thailand’s Songkran Festival, The Worlds Largest Waterfight

Enjoy this Holi guide? Why not pin it to Pinterest for future travel planning?

• See more about India
  • Udaipur – Things to do in The Most Romantic City in India
  • The Best Things To Do In Rishikesh, India in 2020
  • 6 Reasons to Visit North East India
  • India Travel Tips for First Timers
  • 5 Experiences to have in Arunachal Pradesh

Инфоурок

›

Английский язык

›Презентации›Презентация на английском языке «Holi Festival in India»

Другие языки

Переведите на Английский язык пожалуйста!!!

Родина этого фестиваля — Индия. Там Холи — это национальный праздник. На родине он проводится каждый год в конце февраля или начале марта, символизируя окончание зимы. В этот день подобно русскому празднику Масленицы, жители Индии сжигают чучело. Можно своими глазами увидеть хождение по углям или то, как жители прогоняют через костры скот. —

Праздник проходит несколько дней. Когда наступает второй день, индусы обсыпают друг друга сухой краски или просто поливают подкрашенной воды. Так они выражают радость прихода весны. У нас же этот праздник отмечают сравнительно недавно и с существенными различиями. В России Холи — фестиваль ярких красок и развлечений. Он не несет в себе никакого религиозного значения. Холи — это отличная возможность провести благотворительные акции в помощь детям и устроить яркий, необычный праздник. В этот день можно увидеть интересную программу, которая включает в себя: Проведение мастер-класса по индийским танцам. Шоу аниматоров. Гигантские мыльные пузыри. Тематические сувениры. Разнообразные конкурсы. Боди-арт. Выступления знаменитостей. Помимо перечисленных мероприятий, проводятся в России хореографические фестивали, например, «Вальс белых ночей» или национальный фестиваль-конкурс «Великая Россия». Фестиваль — яркое и красочное событие лета. Не пропустите возможность поучаствовать в тех из них, которые будут проходить в вашем городе. Вы подарите себе массу приятных впечатлений. —

Holi, the ‘festival of colors’ is hugely popular throughout India and everywhere in the world where there is a substantial Indian population. This is a Hindu festival but is popular in all communities as it is a fun and joyful event where people will smear others in color, spray water using water guns and water-filled balloons. People play practical jokes and pranks. There is a lot of singing and dancing as well. Sweets and food is distributed. Holi is popular with people of all ages – the kids and old people both love it.

• Holi 2023 will be held on Wednesday 8th March.

The festival is held over two days in spring, in the month of March every year when it is neither too hot nor cold. There is also religious significance of Holi with the Hindus. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna used to play Holi with Radha. In Mathura, the birthplace of Krishna, Holi is celebrated for more than a week. In many Indian communities, the festival also signifies the victory of good over evil. Bonfires are lit up in the evening to burn away evil spirits.

Holi has its root in Hindu religion and mythology, but in modern Indian culture, it is more of a fun event, an occasion to enjoy, play games, and be happy. Colors are applied, water is sprayed, there is music and dancing, songs, sweets are distributed, and gifts are given away.

• Holi is the festival of color.
• It is held in the month of March every year.
• A happy ceremony where people throw colors and water on each other.
• There is loud music.
• Lots of food, sweets, and drinks.
• The festival also signifies the triumph of good over evil.
• In some communities, Holi is seen as a festival for farmers, seeking the blessing for a fertile land and a good harvest.
• There are many Holi feasts and parties in Goa and elsewhere in India.
• There are traditions similar to Holi also in the Christian and European festive calendar.

Dates

• 2021 – March 29th, Monday
• 2022 – March 19th, Saturday
• 2023 – March 8th, Wednesday

Holi Highlights

Holi Gallery

The History Of Holi

The history of Holi goes back a long time. It started many centuries back, probably before the birth of Christ, making this one of the oldest Hindu festivals. Even the ancient Hindu religious books, such as Kathaka-Grhya-Sutra and Jaimini’s Purvamimamsa-Sutras mention Holi.

You will see sculptures depicting Holi on the walls of ancient Indian temples, like for instance the 16^th century temples of Hampi, which was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Princes and princesses are depicted playing Holi with their maids, squirting water and applying colors. There are many medieval paintings too, like the Mewar paintings of circa 1755, the 16^th century Ahmednagar paintings, the Bundi miniatures, and the Mewar paintings of Rajasthan.

Holi In Indian Mythology

The celebration of Holi goes back deep into Hindu history and mythology. Depending on the region, there are different legends about the origin of Holi, but mostly they boil down to the following:

Holika And Prahlad

The story of Holika and Prahlad comes from the sacred Hindu text ‘Narada Purana’. The story is of the King Hiranyakashipu, who was blessed so he could not be killed. But his power turned him evil, so his son Prahlad, a follower of the god Vishnu, decided to kill him. The king found out, and king planned to kill Prahlad with the help of his sister Holika. Covering herself with a magic veil, she persuaded Prahlad to go with her to the fire. But the cloak flew away and covered him. Holika burned down, and Prahlad was saved. Lord Vishnu had to himself kill the King, taking the form of Narasimha.

According to other versions of the legend, Holika could not be harmed by fire if only she ascends alone. The flame consumed her as she was accompanied by Prahlad, and the prince was left unscathed. Later, he learned that this had happened at the will of Narayana (one of the forms of Vishnu), who rewarded the prince for his devotion.

Radha And Krishna

In his youth, Lord Krishna was very playful, but his skin was dark blue in color, because when he was born, an evil demon had tried to poison him. Thus, Krishna was very envious of the radiant skin of his beloved Radha.

The mother of young Krishna, to calm him, suggested that he paint the face of Radha with any color. Krishna embraced the idea and joked with a spray of color on Radha and her friends. But the girls drove him away with sticks and also began to spray water. Later, Krishna and Radha became a couple.

The pranks of Krishna, Radha and their playing with colored jets are recreated in paintings and frescoes. Over time, it has gained recognition and popularity. This turned into a tradition, and later into a full-fledged festival of colors, Holi.

Kamadeva

In South India, the Holi festival is associated with the god of love, Kamadev. According to legend, Lord Shiva became angry and stripped Kamadeva of his body. But Shiva’s wife managed to convince him so that Kamadeva can have his body for three months every year. And to this day, when this happens, the whole of nature blossoms and people become kinder and love each other.

Top 10 Interesting Holi Facts

1. Holi is the ‘festival of colors’. It is also held to celebrate the victory of good over evil. It marks the arrival of spring.
2. The name comes from Holika, sister of Hiranyakashipu, the demon king.
3. Lord Krishna used to play Holi with Radha.
4. The exact date always varies each year. Holi is celebrated after the full moon day on the Phalguna month of the Indian calendar, which is either in February or March.
5. It is celebrated over 2 days. But the celebrations in Mathura, where Krishna was born can last up to 2 weeks.
6. Colored powders and water is sprayed on everyone, even strangers with everyone screaming “Happy Holi”.
7. Music and dancing.
8. Food, alcoholic drinks, cannabis, and Holi parties.
9. Holi parades are held at several places.
10. It is one of the most popular festivals in India. Holi is also celebrated throughout the world by the Hindu communities.

Celebrating Holi

Top 3 Holi Rituals

Holika Dahan

Dahan: The night before Holi

Also called Choti Holi, this is observed on the evening before the Holi day. A stuffed figure of Holika is prepared, and the effigy is burned. This is called the Holika Dahan. Holika is seen as the devil who tried to kill prince Prahlad. This ritual symbolizes the victory of good over evil, and also the triumph of the true devotee.

• Firewood is set on fire to burn the effigy, but the fires must be started at the right time, called the muhurta, which is after the sunset of the full moon evening or the Purnima Tithi.
• Special prayers are conducted before the fire is lit, asking the Gods to bless.
• Mothers walk around the fire with their kids in clockwise direction.
• Religious songs are sung.
• People shout insults about Holika.
• Fruits and grains are thrown into the fire.
• A branch is placed at the center of the fire as it goes out. This branch symbolizes Prahlad.
• Many will take the ash home as the blessing of Gods.

Dhuleti

Dhuleti: second day is the festival of colour

This is held the next morning, and is the actual playing with colors. Dhuleti is the main day of Holi. Most Indians would just have this one day of Holi celebration because of its fun elements. There are no prayers or puja on this day. This is for pure fun and enjoyment.

• Almost everyone plays with colors – seniors, kids, and women.
• The tradition of playing with colors is most popular in North India.
• A mixture of different colors and waters are sprayed even on people in the street whom they don’t know, all in good spirit.
• Buckets and pichkaris are used.
• People visit the houses of their friends and neighbors to apply color and play.
• Gifts are distributed.
• There are loud music and Bollywood Hindi songs.
• Dholak (Indian drum) is played as people dance.
• All kinds of sweets are distributed.
• Thandai (Indian drink) laced with bhang (flower tops and leaves of cannabis), and alcoholic drinks are distributed.

Matka

Matki fod or matki breaking celebration

Matka refers to a pot that is filled with butter-milk. The pot is hung from a great height with ropes. Men and boys form a human pyramid to reach the pot and break it. Women try to prevent this by throwing buckets of water on the boys. This Holi ritual is popular mostly in north and west India.

Holi In Mathura

One of the legends of Holi has associated the festival with Lord Krishna, who was born in Mathura in North India. So Holi is huge in Matura, the biggest festival here. People from all over the country come to Mathura to celebrate Holi. Many foreigners are seen here as well, playing with the colors.

In Mathura, prayers are offered to Lord Krishna, but Holi is mostly a fun festival. Huge processions are brought out, and people apply colors and waters on each other, in the spirit of the childhood days of the Lord.

• Holi is celebrated in Mathura for more than a week.
• Prayers are offered at different temples on each day.
• It is also celebrated at Vrindavan, close to Mathura, where Lord Krishna grew up and played with Radha and her friends. The festival at Bakai-Vihari Temple in Vrindavan is particularly important.
• Events are held at the Gulal-Kund, a small lake close to the Govardhan Hill.

You can read more about the various holidays in Goa here.

Holi In Goa

Holi In Goa

Goa loves to party and Holi offers the perfect opportunity. You will find Holi celebrations throughout Goa, on the beaches, in the villages, and even in many clubs. While, some play Holi to welcome the spring season, others just love the fun, games, and the partying.

Most of the locals here are Christians. But this Hindu festival is still extremely popular, both with the locals and the Indian and foreign tourists. Holika Dahan or Dhakto Shigmo is performed the night before Holi. The Shigmo festival is held in the villages with many bringing out colorful parades. Huge effigies are burned, cultural festivals are organized. In the city of Panaji too, there is a big parade brought out by the Panaji Shigmotsav Samiti. Grand parades are also brought out in Colva. In the evening, people will light bonfires to ward off the evil spirits. There is singing, dancing, and drinking around the fire.

Many festivals and parties are held at Anjuna, Baga, Calangute, Arambol, Candolim, Fatorda, Ponda, Vagator, Mapusa and other places.

Many artists and celebrities are seen at the Tandav Holi Celebrations in Calangute. ‘Bhang’, ‘Thandai’, food, and sweets are served. Psychedelic parties are held at Small Vagator’s Hill Top. There is also the ‘The Jungle Calling Party’ in Vagator, both with international DJs. The Nyex Beach Club in Anjuna organizes one of the biggest Holi parties. The Rangholic festival is held at Ponda. There is dancing to the tunes of young DJs.

How To Stay Safe During Holi

The festival will often break down social norms, as everyone is seen playing together. There is physical touching too. The use of cannabis (bhang) and alcoholic drinks means people are sometimes intoxicated. So it is best to stay safe.

Here’s what you can expect in Holi. Also remember to take these basic precautions and everything should be good –

1. Expect water and colored powder everywhere on your skin, hair and clothes.
2. Expect neighbors and friends to come uninvited for the games and merrymaking. Even strangers may apply color and water.
3. Some paints do not wash away easily. It may take several days.
4. Your clothes will get spoiled, with no chance of repair. So wear wisely.
5. Apply some coconut oil on your skin and hair lotion.
6. Try to protect your mouth and eyes as much as possible.
7. Do not ingest the colors. It can be harmful.
8. Try to stay in a group if you venture outside.
9. Do not let people you do not know into your house.
10. Girls should avoid going alone to the streets.

Villas in Goa for Holi

Choose from a huge range of Luxury Goa Villas for stay during Holi. They all offer free Wi-Fi, swimming pool, parking lot and comfortable spacious rooms with mini-kitchen, bathroom with all necessary supplies, mini bar, terrace and other accommodation requirements.

Here are some amazing villas:

Luxury villa with direct access to the beach. 5* star service. Prime location of North Goa. From 19 000 Rs. per night

The beach villa Zuri White only 50 meters from the beach. Private large fenced area. There are 4 full bedrooms. For 3-8 people. From 18 000 Rs. per night

Luxury 5-bedroom villa with great panoramic views. Private pool. Complete privacy. From 33 000 Rs. per night

* Price depends on arrival dates and duration of stay.

View Villas For Rent

Holi: An Introduction

Holi, the festival of colors has a lot of symbolism associated with it. It is an ancient festival celebrated by Indians to commemorate the victory of good over evil. Also, it is a marking for the harvest and spring season. It is believed that the mythological God Krishna (reincarnated from God Vishnu) used to play pranks on village girls by drenching them in colors and water and that is the reason behind the way it is celebrated.

Holi: Celebration

Holi is celebrated all over India and Nepal as well. In India, the states of Assam (also known as Phakuwa/Dhol), Bihar, Jharkhand, Goa, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal. Effectively, Holi wishes and Holi greetings are exchanged all over India.

Sea-side Holi: An exuberant group of people swaying their hands in the air after a dash at celebrating Holi.

Likewise, Nepal is also completely drenched in the colors of Holi as people exchange colors and throw colored water on each other during the festival. So much so, people all across Nepal and India greet each other on mobile phones by sending Holi quotes and videos of Holi celebrations. Group dance on Holi songs is also a form of celebration enjoyed by people all over India and Nepal.

Holi is celebrated in the Hindu month of Phalguna, incidentally also around the time of harvest for the rabi crop. Therefore, the date of the Holi celebration varies but generally falls in the Gregorian calendar month of March. Holi was celebrated in the year 2019 on March 21. Holi 2020 will be celebrated on March 10. Similarly, Holi 2021 will be enjoyed on March 29, effectively falling in the month of March but on different dates due to variable days of the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna.

The History behind Holi

The festival of Holi is celebrated for a long time and is an ancient festival. So much so, it carries a description in “Ratnavali”, which is a 7th-century drama in the Sanskrit language. It is also mentioned in ancient Indian texts like the Puranas and by the 4th-century poet Kalidasa.

Holi is also celebrated in the honor of different legends that are associated with it. Notable among them are the Vishnu legend, Krishna legend as well as the Kama & Rati legend. Apart from these legends, Holi also has a cultural significance attached to it, according to which, Holi marks as the day to forgive and forget, wash past sins and errors and start afresh in the journey of life.

The Vishnu legend symbolizes Holi as a victory of Good over Evil as a mark of honor for the Hindu God Vishnu and his follower Prahlada. Mythology recalls how Prahlada’s evil aunt Holika made him sit alongside her on a lit pyre. However, due to her evil intentions and God’s appearance to restore Dharma, it is Holika who gets burned – in spite of having a cloak that granted immunity from burning – and Prahlada who is unhurt. Thus, the burning of Holika celebrates the victory of good over evil, the victory of Dharma over Adharma.

According to the Krishna legend, Holi is celebrated in the honor of the divine love between Krishna and Radha. Holi also ushers in the season of Spring, while Holi is also marked as a festival of love. In a similar vein, the Kama and Rati legend signifies the forgiveness of God Shiva and restoration of the God of Love Kama as the mark of celebration in the form of Holi.

Holika Dahan

As described in the Vishnu legend, the essence of Holi rituals lies in the burning of Holika, who was the demoness with cruel intentions of burning her nephew Prahlada. On Holi eve – one evening before the day Holi is celebrated – large bonfires are erected and lit to mark this occasion of the triumph of Good over Evil. This day is called the day of Holika Dahan.

Apart from conducting pooja, scores of people also dance and sing around the fire in celebration, while also walking around the fire thrice in a row. The timing of performing Holika Dahan also varies according to the location and the sunset times of each place. Accordingly, as per legends, performing the ritual at the right time is crucial to keep away misfortune and evil from our lives. This time corresponds to Pradosh Kaal, which is the time when the day and night meet. However, the ritual must be performed after the Bhadra Tithi is over.

Holika Dahan Bonfire: People assemble near a Holika Dahan bonfire, which is lit on the eve of Holi and is followed by celebrating the festival with colored powder.

Holi is celebrated in the Hindu month of Phalguna. Unlike other festivals celebrated in India, there are no major rituals performed on the day of Holi, barring the Holika Dahan pooja on the eve of Holi. Holi is celebrated in the month of March, although the date varies due to the Hindu calendar, which is based on celestial movement and has an average of 29.5 days in a month.

Holi Dates

Holi 2020: 10th March 2020
Holi 2021: 29th March 2021
Holi 2022: 8th March 2022

As Holika Dahan is celebrated just a day before Holi – on Holi eve – the dates for Holika Dahan for the year 2020, 2021 and 2022 will be 9th March, 28th March and 7th March respectively. The date of the Holi festival is selected based on the movement of the moon. It generally falls on the day after the full moon in March each year, with that time falling in the Hindu month of Phalguna.

If you are planning to attend the yoga teacher training in India during the holi, select your course as per the dates above.

The Colors of Holi

The festival of Holi is incomplete without the use of colors. People apply colors on each other’s faces and bodies either in a powdered form or along with water. The colors of Holi were historically made from natural colors and extracts of flowers, turmeric, beetroot, berries, leaves, and sandalwood paste, with the timing also favoring the use of flowers when trees blossom. However, in the present day, colors are made from industrial dyes and pigment, thus replacing natural colors with synthetic colors. This has led to problems like skin irritation and inflammation. This lack of control over the source of colors has led to health problems among people.

Holi Powder for Sale: Shops showcase the vivid colors of Holi powder put up for sale in the local market.

Like the rituals associated with Holi, the colors of Holi also have a meaning and significance attached to them. The following are the symbolism associated with Holi colors:

• Red – The Color Red is a symbol of love, fertility, and passion.
• Yellow – The Color Yellow symbolizes knowledge, learning, meditation, happiness, and peace.
• Pink – Pink is the color of compassion and care
• Blue – The color of God Krishna’s face, and of the oceans and sky.
• Green – The Color Green symbolizes nature as well as the start of new beginnings and the spring season
• Purple – The color of Purple is a symbol of mystery and magic.

How is Holi celebrated?

Holi is celebrated in a variety of ways across the country. In the town of Barsana in Uttar Pradesh, Holi is played in the form of Lathmar Holi – Holi with sticks – where women dressed in traditional clothes symbolically beat men with sticks while applying colors all over the town.

In the towns of Mathura and Vrindavan of Uttar Pradesh, Holi is celebrated in a traditional manner. This means that temples and junctions of Mathura are covered by colors in the run-up to the festival. Festivities start almost 40 days in advance of the actual date of Holi, with the Dwarkadheesh Temple being the most coveted among visitors for a glimpse of the celebrations.

Holi by the beach: A group of visitors poses for a photo after enjoying the colors of Holi at the beach.

The town of Shantiniketan in West Bengal is famous for its cultural Holi, wherein cultural programs and activities are organized, followed by regular celebrations with colors. In a similar way, the town of Purulia in West Bengal is known for its Folk Holi with different types of folk art and dances organized in the commemoration of the festival.

Anandpur Sahab in Punjab is known for its warrior Holi, which demonstrates physical agility among participants and while also organizing military exercises, martial arts, turban tying, wrestling, and mock sword fighting.

Apart from the above, musical Holi in Delhi, royal Holi in Udaipur, Holi with elephants in Jaipur and the less exuberant form of Holi of Hampi in Karnataka is also celebrated across India.

What not to do during Holi celebration

As joyous as the festival of Holi may seem, there are particular mannerisms and ways to follow when you are celebrating Holi with someone. There are also certain no-nos when it comes to behaving with fellow people:

• Avoid coloring anyone forcefully
• Don’t apply colors on animals
• Stop the wastage of water
• Stop throwing water balloons that have filth and dust in them

Holi Safety Information

Along with Holi comes a tendency to let loose and be more casual and friendly in your approach to fellow people. Due to this, males in India usually take this casual attitude too far and behave disrespectfully, especially with women. This includes molesting women, forcefully applying color on them, and touching inappropriately.

In light of this, it is recommended that women should avoid going out alone in public places and prefer to enjoy the festival in their own close group of known people and friends. Most males in public places overdose on local intoxicants like Bhaang and then display lewd tendencies and behavior. These people move around in groups and can be quite aggressive in their actions. It is therefore advisable to exercise adequate care and precaution while enjoying the festival.

If you do make plans to enjoy street Holi, it is preferred to do so in the early morning. This is the time when it is relatively safer. You can also come back my mid-day before the inebriated folks come along. Many good hotels also organize close-knit parties for their guests which are perfectly safe.

During the course of the Holi celebration, you must expect to be colored on your face, mouth or even ears. You must take care to protect your eyes and avoid opening your mouth. A polite denial while someone tries to apply color to sensitive body parts can also work to avoid any health issues.

Famous Bollywood Holi Songs

Bollywood has glorified the festival of Holi with a lot of songs and performances celebrating the festival with vigor and fun. The following are some songs dedicated by Bollywood to the Holi festival:

Balam Pichkari

Holi Khele Raghuveera

Rang Barse Bheege Chunarwaali

Badri ki Dulhania

Holi ke Din Dil khil Jaate hain

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPAzK1hMfg

[rv id=”-GPAzK1hMfg”]

Do me a favor let’s play Holi

Holi Images: Colorful Photos of the Holi Festival

Family time with Holi: A tourist couple enjoying the colors and fun associated with celebrating Holi with his child.

People celebrating Lathmar Holi: Lathmar Holi is a local Holi celebration that takes place a few days before the actual festival date. It is popular near the town of Mathura in Uttar Pradesh.

Flying colors of Holi in the US: A large congregation of people is completely drowned in the colors of Holi while dancing along the way.

Holi all over: A color-laden elderly man stands in a serious pose as people in the background enjoy the festival of Holi by showering colors on each other.

Shopping time: People gather around a stall selling packets of colored powder and water guns on the occasion of Holi.

Holi at the Ashram: People and priests at the ashram celebrate Holi using colored powder.

A hand at the Flute: A “colorful” tourist tries his hand with a Flute on the occasion of Holi.

And the show goes on: A young group of visitors enjoys applying colored powder on each other while celebrating Holi at the beach.

Holi at the shack: A group of visitors poses for a picture after a dash of pink color while celebrating Holi.

Organic Colors: A plate of flower-extracted organic colors shown on a plate along with a matching set of flowers.

Children’s Holi: A couple of children celebrate Holi by applying colors on a grown-up man.

Holi amidst mountains: A group of yoga-enthusiast girls poses by the mountain after a splash with colors in Holi.

Yoga with colors: A group of American yoga learners enjoys the colors of Holi following their morning practice.

Bonhomie Time: A group of bubbly girls and guys poses for a candid photograph after hand at coloring each other’s faces with Holi powder.

Group Dance: Yoga visitors shake their legs to music in the middle of the Holi festival.

Color me everything: A gang of girls cannot hide their happiness after drenching themselves in colorful powders on the occasion of Holi.

Conclusion

Overall, the festival of Holi means different things for different people all across India. While some regions prefer the pomp and show while celebrating, others like the cultural performances and simplicity of playing around with powdered organic colors. No matter the way of celebration, Holi is a festival that binds the people of the country with unparalleled bond that no other festival can compare.

Ответ:

One of this festival is India. There, Holi is a national holiday. At home, it is held every year in late February or early March, symbolizing the end of winter. On this day, like the Russian holiday Carnival, the people of India burn a scarecrow. You can see for yourself with your own eyes walking on the coals or the way in which the inhabitants drive cattle through the fires. —

The holiday passes several days. When the second day comes, the Hindus sprinkle dry paint on each other or just water the tinted water. So they express the joy of the coming of spring. We celebrate this holiday relatively recently and with significant differences. In Russia, Holi is a festival of bright colors and entertainment. It does not carry any religious significance. Holi is an excellent opportunity to hold charitable events to help children and to organize a bright, unusual holiday. On this day you can see an interesting program that includes: Holding a master class on Indian dances. Show of animators. Giant soap bubbles. Thematic souvenirs. Various contests. Body art. Celebrities performances. In addition to the above events, choreographic festivals are held in Russia, for example, «The Waltz of the White Nights» or the national festival-contest «Great Russia». The festival is a bright and colorful event of the summer. Do not miss the opportunity to participate in those of them that will take place in your city. You will give yourself a lot of pleasant impressions.

With the throwing of colored powder and water balloons, Holi has become known as India’s most vivid, joyous festival. International travel groups selling tours to the country often place photos of boisterous Holi celebrations alongside pictures of the Taj Mahal.

Although the Hindu festival of colors finds its origins in South Asia, it has now gained popularity across the world, with Holi events organized across the U.S., the U.K. and elsewhere.

Here’s everything you need to know about Holi.

What is Holi?

Holi has been celebrated in the Indian subcontinent for centuries, with poems documenting celebrations dating back to the 4th century CE. It marks the beginning of spring after a long winter, symbolic of the triumph of good over evil. It is celebrated in March, corresponding to the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna. In 2020, Holi begins March 10.

There are varying accounts of Holi’s origin mentioned in several works of ancient Indian literature. According to one popular version of the story, an evil king became so powerful that he forced his subjects to worship him as their god. But to the king’s ire, his son Prahlada continued to be an ardent devotee of the Hindu deity Lord Vishnu. The angry king plotted with his sister, Holika, to kill his son. Holika, who was immune to fire, tricked Prahlada to sit in a pyre with her. When the pyre was lit, the boy’s devotion to Lord Vishnu helped him walk away unscathed while Holika, from whom the festival derives its name, was burned to death despite her immunity.

How is Holi celebrated?

On the eve of the festival, large pyres are lit in many parts of India to signify the burning of evil spirits. People often throw wood, dried leaves and twigs into bonfires.

On the day of Holi, entire streets and towns turn red, green and yellow as people throw colored powder into the air and splash them on others. Each color carries a meaning. Red, for example, symbolizes love and fertility while green stands for new beginnings. People also splash water on each other in celebration. Water guns are used to squirt water, while balloons filled with colored water are also flung from rooftops. Later in the day, families gather together for festive meals. It is also common to distribute sweets among neighbors and friends.

Why has Holi become popular outside India?

Holi has become increasingly popular outside of India — in large part because of the millions of Indians and other South Asians living all over the world. As with Diwali, another Indian festival, communities with South Asian heritage living abroad often get together to celebrate Holi.

“We want the future generation to be connected to the culture back home,” says Minal Jaiswal, who moved to London from Mumbai in 2003. Jaiswal organizes a not-for-profit Holi event every year for London’s South Asian community, which features dance performances and short plays on the story behind Holi. “Celebrating as a community helps parents show their children what this festival stands for.”

However, some commercial Holi events have faced criticism of cultural appropriation. Many have complained about the gimmicky nature of some events and “color marathons” organized in the U.S. and Europe. Critics accuse organizers of co-opting the famous colored powder used in Holi, while ignoring the religious significance of the festival and turning it into just another raucous party.

“There has been a commodification and exotification of Holi,” says Shana Sippy, assistant professor of religion at Centre College in Danville, Kentucky. “It has been freely used as a money-making enterprise.”

But some argue that widening the appeal of Holi is good for cultural understanding. Caru Das, who organizes Holi festivals in the U.S., dismisses charges of cultural appropriation and says celebrations are instrumental in bringing people of different cultures together.

“In the current climate of deteriorating politics and divisiveness around the world, this is a breath of fresh air in comparison to all the name calling and hate exploding around us,” says Das, who is a follower of Hinduism, but does not have South Asian heritage.

Holi and religious tensions in India

Despite having roots in Hinduism, Holi has been celebrated across all religious communities in India. It is not uncommon to see Hindus and Muslims open up their homes to each other for religious festivities.

This year’s Holi festivities come in the wake of mounting religious tensions and some of the worst religious violence India has seen in years. A controversial citizenship law invoked by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has triggered nationwide protests and deadly clashes across the country.

As a festival, Holi has always been about breaking boundaries. While it is often seen as a colorful festival, Sippy, the religion professor, says it “has often involved much more violent forms of letting loose.” She points to past incidents of sexual assault and harassment during Holi celebrations.

“Even though Holi can be a wonderful, celebratory spring festival, it is now just one reason for the vulnerable to feel terrified,” she adds. “We are already seeing whole new levels of horrific communal violence in India and there isn’t any space for letting loose at this moment.”

Write to Abhishyant Kidangoor at abhishyant.kidangoor@time.com.