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Holi - Festival of Colors |
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Page 1 of 2 With winter mists melting in the sunshine, Phalgun brings new life to every leaf and bud, announcing that Vasant Ritu or Springtime has come with its great display of flowers and fruits. While nature wears verdant new robes, the vernal equinox brings hope to farmers. This joyful new beginning is celebrated on the full moon day of Phalgun at the most colourful festival of India - Holi.
Thc night before the full moon, crowds of people gather in open spaces and light huge bonfires to burn the residual dried leaves and twigs of the winter) To fire-god Hutashani, they offer ears of corn, new vegetables, coconuts, butter, sweets, flowers and vermillion.
The Holi bonfire, often a community event, is also a commemoration of the Puranic legend in which the demoness Holika was burnt to death and the victory of good over evil was once again ensured.
Next morning, when the embers are cold, dhuli or the sacred dust of the bonfire is venerated. Coloured water and powders (gulal and kurnkum) are thrown over merrymakers to svrnholise the coming of spring.
Especially in villages, Holi, also called Phag or Shimga, is an important fortnight-long celebration during which homes are renaired. harvests Planned weddings held and feast shared. In the northern, western, as well as eastern regions, Holi celebrates the joyful raasleela of Krishna and the gopis.
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