What is Holi?
Holi celebrations mark the beginning of spring and the end of winter. It is also celebrated as a thanksgiving for a good harvest. The main day of the festival, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil, will be celebrated on March 8 this year.
The Spiritual Aspect of Holi
The festival of Holi is based on the myth of Lord Vishnu slaying the Asura king Hiranyakashipu. In some regions, it is celebrated as a commemoration of the divine love between Lord Krishna and his consort Radha. In the Braj region (birthplace of Lord Krishna), the festival is celebrated until Rang Panchmi.
Holi in Jammu and Kashmir
Here, the festival marks the beginning of the harvest of summer crops. People celebrate Holi by dancing, singing, and spraying coloured water
Holi in Karnataka
Here, Holi is a festival for Children. Kids collect money in the week prior to Holi. They use the money to prepare a bonfire on the night before Holi.
Also, a unique dance called “BEDRA VESHA” is performed on the night before Holi. Tourists from different parts of India visit to watch the dance.
Holi in Maharashtra
Here, it is celebrated as Shimga. Puran Poli is cooked during holi and offered to the kids. Maharashtrians forgive and forget rivalries that happened in the past. Celebrated for five to six days.
Holi in Manipur
Celebrated in the name of Yaosang. The dance performed is “THABAL CHONGBA” on the night before Holi. Celebrated for six days.
Holi in Odisha
Celebrated in the name of Dola or Pushpadola. Processions of Krishna and Radha are held.
Holi in Punjab
Celebrated in the name of “LUHATAK”.
Other States
- Tamil Nadu: PANGUNI UTHIRAM
- Telangana: JAJIRI
- Tripura: Pali
- UP, Uttarakhand: HOLI
- West Bengal: Dol Jatra
Holi marks the Unity in Diversity. Holi is celebrated all over India in different names and in different contexts.
Month: Current Affairs - March, 2023
Category: Important Days & Events Current Affairs