Holi is a major Hindu festival of colours, love, and spring. It celebrates the love between the deities Radha and Krishna.
Additionally, the day signifies the triumph of good over evil, as it commemorates the victory of Vishnu as Narasimha over Hiranyakashipu.
Holi originated in ancient Indian subcontinent and is predominantly celebrated in the Indian subcontinent, but has also spread to other regions of Asia and parts of the Western world.
📜History & Significance
Holika Puja and Holika Dahan is a Vedic ritual and getting observed since ages. Religiously, it is very significant day as Prahlada the ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu was saved while his aunt Holika was burnt in huge bonfire meant to immolate Prahlada. Hence, every-year Holika is burnt as a symbol of all evils in the society. However, in modern India, Holi is considered the festival of colors, joy and merriment.
🪔Traditions & Observance
Numerous rituals are followed during Holi. These rituals vary from state to state and within a state region to region. However, Holika Puja burning Holika effigy in the evening or late night roasting green cereals in Holika bonfire playing Holi with wet and dry colors on the next day of Holika Dahan get together with friends and relative in the evening are the most important rituals which are observed during Holi festivities.
🛕Puja Vidhi & Rituals
The demoness Holika, the sister of demon Hiranyakashipu , and Prahlada, the devotee of Lord Vishnu, are the main deities of Holi. The demoness Holika getting worshipped along with devotee Prahlada is one of the mysterious rituals of Hinduism. Please refer why Holika is worshipped? to understand the mystery of worshipping demoness Holika who tried to kill child devotee of Lord Vishnu.
