Why we celebrate Holi

Why we celebrate Holi

In 2024, Holi will be celebrated on March 25, which falls on a Monday. This day is marked by people smearing each other with colorful powders, spraying water guns, and enjoying traditional sweets and delicacies.

Holi is a historical Hindu competition that is widely known with tremendous enthusiasm and zeal throughout India and different elements of the world. According to the Hindu calendar, Holi is found yearly on the whole moon day of the Falgun month. This festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil, With the arrival of spring, the world awakens from its long slumber as the icy grip of winter loosens. The trees that were once barren and lifeless suddenly burst forth with vibrant green leaves, and colorful flowers bloomed in abundance. The air is filled with the sweet fragrance of freshness and new beginnings, as the world comes alive with the promise of warmth and sunshine. It is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, a time to shed the old and embrace the new, as the arrival of spring marks the end of winter and the beginning of a new chapter.

Preceding Holi is Holika Dahan, which is also known as Choti Holi, scheduled for Sunday, March 24, 2024. This day marks the symbolic victory of good over evil and involves lighting a bonfire to signify the burning of evil spirits.

Overall, Holi is a vibrant and joyous festival that brings people of all ages and backgrounds together to celebrate the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of spring.

Unique Holi Celebrations Across India

Holi, the festival of colors, is celebrated in diverse ways across India, with festivities lasting anywhere from two days to up to 40 days in certain regions. One of the most iconic rituals is Holika Dahan, also known as the lighting of bonfires, symbolizing the victory of good over evil, particularly prevalent in North India. In contrast, South India observes a similar ritual known as Kama Dahanam, associated with the mythological tale of Shiva and Kama.

Lathmar Holi in Barsana, Uttar Pradesh

In Barsana, Uttar Pradesh, located in the Vraja or Braj region, a unique celebration called Lathmar Holi takes place. Here, women from Radha's village engage in a playful battle with men from Krishna's village using staves and shields. This tradition, known as Lathmar Holi, signifies the eternal love between Radha and Krishna. The festivities in Barsana, Mathura, and Vrindavan commence with Basant Panchami, marking the onset of spring, and extend for 40 days until the culmination of Holi. Throughout this period, the air is filled with the vibrancy of flowers, the clang of staves and shields, and the joyous hues of colors. Phulera Dooj, a significant day during this period, is celebrated with the offering of flowers, adding to the auspiciousness of the occasion.

Embracing the Spirit of Holi: Empowering Widows in Vrindavan and Varanasi

In a heartening departure from tradition, Sulabh International, a non-profit organization, has embarked on a mission to empower widows residing in Vrindavan and Varanasi, where thousands lead a life marred by societal restrictions and neglect. Often abandoned by their families and constrained by orthodox practices, these widows are deprived of the vibrancy of festivals like Holi.

The initiative gained momentum in 2013 when India's National Legal Services Authority raised concerns about the dismal living conditions of widows in Vrindavan's shelters, prompting the Supreme Court to intervene. Sulabh International was tasked with improving the welfare of these marginalized women. As part of its comprehensive intervention strategy, the organization encouraged widows to embrace the joyous spirit of Holi by partaking in colorful celebrations.

In 2015, Sulabh International orchestrated Holi festivities for widows residing in Varanasi shelters, marking a significant milestone in their journey towards empowerment. Since then, these resilient women have embraced the festival with open arms, reveling in the kaleidoscope of colors and the camaraderie it fosters.

Through its compassionate efforts, Sulabh International is not only brightening the lives of widows but also breaking societal barriers and fostering inclusivity. By enabling these women to partake in Holi celebrations, the organization is sowing the seeds of joy, dignity, and empowerment in the hearts of those who have long been marginalized.

In Maharashtra, Holi is a multi-day celebration observed by certain communities, similar to the traditions in North India. The eve of Holi, known as Holika Dahan, sees the lighting of bonfires. The following day, known as Dhulivandan, is dedicated to smearing mud on each other instead of colored powders. Rang Panchami, celebrated five days after Holika Dahan, marks the occasion when people engage in the playful throwing of colored powders. This tradition is also observed in parts of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Rajasthan.

The Konkan region

In the Konkan region, which spans coastal areas of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Goa, Holi is known as Shimga or Shigmotsav, and festivities can extend for up to a fortnight. According to local belief, deities visit homes during Holi, prompting colorful processions featuring brightly adorned palanquins carrying idols of the gods. In Goa, the celebration takes on a carnival-like atmosphere, characterized by lively parades featuring folk dances, vibrant tableaux depicting scenes from Hindu scriptures, and elaborate floats showcasing mythological figures.

In the southern regions of India, Holi is often celebrated with less fervor compared to the exuberant festivities in the north, and in some areas, it may not be observed at all. Instead, South Indian traditions during this time tend to focus on the stories of Shiva and Kama.

In Tamil Nadu, the festival is known as Kaman Pandigai, Kama Vilas, or Kama Dahanam, and it includes songs of lament from Rati's perspective. Meanwhile, in Kerala, the celebration known as Manjal Kuli involves temple prayers and the playful splashing of turmeric-colored water.

In the Caribbean, particularly among Indo-Caribbean communities who migrated from India during the colonial era, Holi is celebrated as Phagwah, derived from the month of Phalguna. In places like Queens, New York, where there is a large population of Indo-Caribbeans from Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Suriname, Phagwah celebrations reflect the diverse cultural tapestry of the city. These celebrations often include participation from people of various backgrounds, emphasizing unity and integration within the community.

With Holi coming up, let's welcome the vibrant colors, joyous festivities, and cherished traditions that define this beautiful celebration. May the colors of Holi spread love, happiness, and togetherness in our lives. I wish you and your family a colorful and comfortable Holi!

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