Holi is the most colourful and joyous of the Indian festivals celebrated by Hindus around the world. It marks the beginning of the spring harvest season and is usually celebrated at the end of February or early March.
The “festival of colours” is a time to relax social codes. Barriers between rich and poor, men and women, young and old are broken down by Holi’s bright colors. It is sometimes called the “festival of love” as it is a day to get together, play, laugh, forgive, forget and mend strained relationships, strengthening the message of love, goodness and renewal.
The celebration lasts for a night and a day. The first night is known as Chhoti Holi (small Holi) and involves a symbolic bonfire that people gather around to sing and dance in hopes of overcoming negativity by getting rid of bad thoughts and deeds from the previous year. In the morning, people of all ages head into the streets wearing white. The fun continues by smearing one another with coloured powder (gulal) and drenching each another in colored or scented water (pani), until everyone is painted in bright colours. Groups carrying drums and other musical instruments, go from place to place, singing and dancing to the music. In the evening, dressed in all their finery, people get together with family and friends to enjoy festive foods, sweets and companionship. Hindu temples are decorated with bright colors and the Deities are adorned in glittering jewels and clothing.
Wishing all who are celebrating a very colorful and joyous Holi!!
