What is Holi?

Holi, also know as the Festival of Colors or Festival of Love, is a Hindu holiday that marks the start of Spring. It is celebrated in the 12th month of the Hindu calendar (Phagun). Like many holidays, Holi is a celebration of the triumph of good over evil. [1]

What is the origin of Holi?

Mentions of Holi date back as far as the 4th Century! In the 7th Century, the Indian Emperor Harsha wrote: “Witness the beauty of the great cupid festival which excites curiosity as the townsfolk are dancing at the touch of brownish water thrown … Everything is colored yellowish red and rendered dusty by the heaps of scented powder blown all over.” [2]

The most popular origin involves a sacrifice to save an innocent life. In Hindu mythology, there was a king who killed anyone who disobeyed him or worshipped other gods/beings. The king grew resentful of his sun who worshiped Vishnu instead. As a result, the king conspired to kill his own son. After many failed attempts, he conspired with his sister Holika; in the end Holika gives her own life for her nephew’s. [1]

How is Holi celebrated?

The celebration of Holi usually lasts for two day: Holika Dahan and Holi.

While Holika Dahan is marked with bonfires, the day of Holi sees people of all ages smear each other with dry or wet paint and get showered in powdered color and water.

Did you know?
Holi is celebrated in most parts of India, with each region having its own traditions. The celebrations in northern India tend to be more colorful and vivid while those in the south focus mainly on religious and temple rituals.

Aljazeera: Holi Festival

Common foods and drinks include: guijya, flaky pastries with dried fruit; malpua, deep-ried pancakes; rasmalai, a creamy dessert; and thandai, a sweet, spiced milk-based drink. [3]