Holi, the Festival of Colors, is one of the most widely celebrated Hindu festivals. The festival is a time of joy and excitement, widely known for the use of vibrant colored powders. As with many other Hindu festivals, Holi has some ties to representing the triumph of good over evil.
The origins of Holi is believed to be related to the story of King Hiranyakashipu. The demon king wished for all subjects of his kingdom to pray and worship him rather than God.
His son Prahlad, however, was a devout devotee of Lord Vishnu. Hiranyakashipu hated his son for disobeying him and because Lord Vishnu had killed the king’s brother.
Hiranyakashipu persuaded his sister, Holika, who was immune to fire, to enter a raging fire with Prahlad in her lap. However, Holika was unaware that her immunity only worked if she was alone, so she perished.
Prahlad exited the fire untouched, due to his extreme devotion to God. This represents the victory of good over evil once again, and during Holi, bonfires are usually lit to celebrate. Similar ancient stories tell about the use of colors during the festival. Many believe the use of colors comes from Lord Krishna’s pranks on milkmaids, drenching them in colored water, and/ or from Krishna fearing that Radha would not like him for his unique skin color.
The Sanskrit word “Krishna” means “dark” or “black”, although Krishna has universally been depicted as blue. It is believed that Radha allowed Krishna to dye her hair and skin, making them a couple. Therefore, Holi is not only about good over evil but also love.
The festival of Holi is usually celebrated in March, at the start
of spring, and on the day of the full moon. Rituals include Holika Dahan, which is the burning of a Holika effigy in a large bonfire on the eve of Holi to celebrate the death of evil and victory of Prahlad and good, as in devotion to God.
People of all nationalities and religions participate in the celebration of Holi with colored powders and waters. Often people gather in the streets or in large groups and throw water and powder on everyone.
The celebration is supposed to be a time of enjoyment. People also often eat sweets and spend time with their family and dance. Holi is also a time of love, so people are encouraged to mend relationships, pay off debts, and forgive and forget.
Even though the pandemic continues to hinder celebrations and social gatherings, by the time of Holi, we may be able to gather in small groups. If that is the case, Hindus and people around the world will be able to rejoice and celebrate together. If we are still limited in social interaction, the spirit of Holi will still be felt worldwide, and we should spread happiness and love in a time of despair and loneliness.