Hindus worldwide celebrate Holi, a bright and colourful holiday mostly held in India and Nepal but also observed in other places where Hindu populations are present. Usually held in March, the celebration heralds the entrance of spring and the victory of good over evil.
There are several reasons behind the celebration of Holi:
Legend of Prahlada and Holika: Prahlada is a pious young prince rescued from the flames by the deity Vishnu. This is one of the most well-known legends connected to Holi. Hiranyakashipu, the father of Prahlada, was a demon king who prohibited the worship of Vishnu yet desired to be worshipped as a deity. Hiranyakashipu, who was resistant to fire, commanded his sister Holika to sit with Prahlada in a blazing pyre when she persisted in worshipping Vishnu. But since Prahlada was so devoted, he survived, and Holika died. As a symbol of the triumph of good (Prahlada's devotion) over evil (Hiranyakashipu's tyranny), Holika is burned, and this festival is celebrated with bonfires known as "Holika Dahan."
Radha and Krishna's Playful Love: Another popular legend of Holi is the divine love between the Hindu god Krishna and his consort, Radha. According to folklore, young Krishna, who had a dark complexion, felt insecure about his contrasting skin colour compared to Radha's fair complexion. Mischievous Krishna approached his mother, Yashoda, seeking advice on addressing this. Yashoda playfully suggested that Krishna apply colour on Radha's face to change her complexion to any colour he liked. He followed this advice, and Krishna, Radha, and their friends engaged in playful colour fights, which later evolved into the modern tradition of applying coloured powders and water during Holi.
Springtime Celebration: Holi is also a time to celebrate the beginning of spring and the passing of the chilly winter months. People celebrate the beauty of nature's rebirth during this time of year because of blossoming flowers, verdant foliage, and warmer temperatures. The vivid hues utilised during Holi symbolise the colours of spring and the festive mood of the occasion.
Overall, Holi is celebrated as a joyous occasion that brings people together, transcending caste, creed, and age barriers. It's a time for forgiveness, relationship renewal, and spreading love and happiness. Throughout the festival, people sing and dance, exchange sweets and gifts, and participate in colourful processions, making it one of the most exuberant and widely celebrated festivals in Hindu culture.
Also read: What is the significance of Shivratri?
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