Holi

The Legend of Holi

There are innumerable legends and stories associated with Holi.

Prahlad, a devotee of God Vishnu in the city of Multan Pakistan, was an ardent devotee of Bhagwan Vishnu.

The name of the festival has originated from the demon sister "Holika". This festival has the ritual to follow lighting bonfires with dry twigs and leaves to commemorate Holika Dahan. This ritual gives us the message of warding off all evil spirits and welcoming of good spirits.

The famous legend of Hiranyakashipu- Prahalad's story goes as fierce demon king had ambitions to rule on heaven, earth, and hell. He vanquished the worship of Lord Vishnu in his entire kingdom. His son "Prahalad" was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu. He refused to follow his father's order and continued to worship Lord Vishnu. This infuriated his father, demon king Hiranyakashipu so much that he ordered his demon sister Holika to set ablaze Prahalad. He was protected by divine forces and came unscratched out of the blaze and demon Holika was burned to death. Henceforth, this legend signifies the triumph of good over evil power.

The Radha-Krishna story

The beautiful colors of Holi also signify the traditional Ras Leela of Radha-Krishna along with Gopis. This mythological story goes as Krishna was dark-skinned and Radhika had a fair complexion. Young Krishna was very jealous of this fact therefore he had smeared colors on the face of Radhika. Since then, the Holi festival is celebrated to mark as an occasion to apply colors on his beloved's face.

Holi Celebration as Vasanta Utsav

In several parts of India, Holi is celebrated as Vasanta Utsav which means spring festival. Holi colors are known by different colors of gulaal and abir. The onset of spring also marks the blooming of flowers. Thus, the arrival of Holi signifies joy and abundance.

Temples and households are cleaned and decorated with flowers and rangoli during Holi. People plan for cultural gatherings in nearby localities. Visit loved ones houses in order to greet with gulal and sweets. They smear each other with various colors and exchange warm greetings of Holi. Dance and music are also integral parts of the Holi festival.