Why Holi is Celebrated?

Holi is one of the most exciting and colorful festivals celebrated in India and many parts of the world. It's a festival that spreads happiness, love, and the message of good winning over evil.

The day of Holika Dahan coincides with the Purnima day during the month of Phalguna. The next day after Holika Dahan is observed as Holi.

Holi happens at the end of winter, welcoming the beautiful spring season. It is celebrated over two days. The first day is called Holika Dahan, and the second day is when people play with colors, and it’s the most fun part of the festival!

Holika Dahan is a very important part of Holi. It is based on the legend of Prahlada, who was a very good boy and loved Lord Vishnu. But his father, Hiranyakashipu, didn’t like Prahlada praying to Vishnu. Hiranyakashipu’s sister, Holika, had a special cloak that could protect her from fire. Hiranyakashipu made her sit with Prahlada in a big fire, hoping to burn Prahlada. But Lord Vishnu saved Prahlada, and Holika burned in the fire instead!

To remember this story, people make a big bonfire on the night before Holi. They light the fire and pray for their family's happiness, safety, and the victory of good over bad things in life. People sing and dance around the fire, which is called Holika Dahan.

Now comes the fun part: the next day is the celebration of colors! It is the day everyone looks forward to. Early in the morning, people gather with their friends, families, and neighbors. They play with bright powders called gulal, and everyone throws these powders at each other, turning everything into a rainbow of colors! They also use water guns and water balloons, making the game even more exciting.

The streets are filled with laughter and shouts of 'Happy Holi!' as everyone forgets their worries and enjoys the festival. No one cares about how they look or if their clothes are messy. It’s all about fun and togetherness. Even people who might have had fights or misunderstandings come together, forgive each other, and play Holi happily.

Holi is also a time to eat special sweets and snacks. One famous sweet is gujiya, a delicious pastry filled with nuts and sweet ingredients. People visit each other’s homes, share treats, and have a great time together.

At its heart, Holi teaches us important lessons. It reminds us to be kind, forgive others, and to let go of anything bad in our hearts. Just like how the colors mix and make everything beautiful, Holi teaches us that life is better when we all come together, share love, and spread joy.

So, Holi is not just about throwing colors or dancing around. It’s about celebrating love, happiness, and the power of goodness. It’s a day when everyone is equal, and all that matters is having fun together!

Concepts linked to the celebration of Holi:

1. Holi offers a way for people to release built-up emotions, especially through the fun and chaotic play with colors. It serves as a safe space for emotional expression and stress relief.
2. The festival encourages social bonding. People come together, resolving conflicts, reinforcing the concept of community and belonging.
3. Holi represents the principle of letting go. Participants are encouraged to forgive past wrongs, fostering emotional healing and renewal.
4. The joy, rewards, and shared experiences of playing Holi reinforce positive social interactions, teaching individuals that kindness and forgiveness bring happiness. This can also help reduce social tensions.

Knowledge Bank

Agnishaucham

Nala got separated from Damayanti. He was roaming around in the forest. At that time, he got bitten by the serpent, Karkotaka. He became ugly beyond recognition due to the effect of the poison. Then, Karkotaka gave him a cloak with magical power called Agnishaucham (अग्निशौचम्). Wearing this, Nala could get back his original form.

What is exclusive devotion?

Exclusive devotion according to Narada-bhakti-sutra. 10 is the abandonment of all means of support other than Bhagavan.