The playful, fun festival of Holi
Posted on: 11/Mar/2013 12:16:17 PM
The wonderful colourful festival of Holi falls on the 27th of this month. The festival is celebrated to usher in spring. This Hindu festival is predominantly celebrated in India and Nepal with pomp and splendour. The Hindu Diaspora around the world celebrates as well.
The festival acknowledges the devotion of Prahlada to Lord Vishnu. It also celebrates the divine love between Radha and Lord Krishna. In Mathura the festival is also called Rangpanchami and is celebrated for 16 years. The south of India celebrates the festival in the name of the sacrifice made by Kama, the God of Love, when he shot Lord Shiva with his arrow and woke him up from Penance.
Holi is a playful festival filled with pranks. Smearing everyone with colours, breaking eggs on the others’ head are just part of the fun. In Gujarat, women indulge in Laathmaar Holi where they catch menfolk and dress them up in female outfits. In Maharashtra and Gujarat, the menfolk form human pyramids to break a pot full of buttermilk. The pot is hung high above the street and the game is one filled with ambition.
In Punjab, the festival is celebrated as Hola Mohalla where strength and military prowess are showcased. The Baithki Holi is celebrated in Uttarakhand, where importance is given to music.
Have you celebrated Holi? Do share your experiences with us!
