Holi Celebration in India
Holi is one of the most popular Hindu festivals celebrated across India every year on the full moon day (Purnima) of the month of Phalguna, which usually falls in March. Known as the Festival of Colors, Holi is observed with great enthusiasm and joy throughout the country.
We all are familiar with the story of Bhakt Prahlad and Holika Dahan, which is closely associated with Holi. However, very few people know how the words “Holika“ and “Holi” originated. Additionally, Holi is celebrated under different names in various states outside Gujarat. Let’s explore these interesting facts!
Different Names of Holi in Various States
- In Haryana, Holi is called “Dulandi”.
- In Punjab, it is known as “Hola Mohalla”.
- In Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, Holi is celebrated as “Phag” or “Lathmar Holi”.
- In Maharashtra, it is referred to as “Phalgun Purnima”.
- In South India, Holi is known by the name “Kamadhan”.
Diverse Ways of Celebrating Holi
Along with different names, Holi celebrations also vary in traditions and customs across regions.
- In Vrindavan, Holi is celebrated with flowers. Devotees gather in temples dedicated to Radha and Krishna, joyfully throwing flowers at one another.
- In some places, people prefer to play with pink and yellow gulal (colored powder).
- Elsewhere, a mix of sandalwood and saffron is blended into water to create natural colors for playing Holi.
Origin of the Word “Holi”
Every festival and its name usually has a story or history behind it. The word “Holi“ is no exception. It is believed that on the full moon day of Phalguna month, ancient Aryans would offer the first grains of the new harvest (wheat and barley) to the sacred fire in a ritual called Agnihotra. In Sanskrit, “Holka” refers to the sheaf of grains, and from this word, “Holika” and “Holi” are derived. Over time, the word “Holi” evolved into “Holi” (હોળી) in Gujarati.
Mythological Story of Holi
According to legend, there was a demon king named Hiranyakashipu. His son Prahlad was a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu, which angered the king. To punish Prahlad, Hiranyakashipu’s sister Holika (who had a boon that made her immune to fire) sat in a burning pyre with Prahlad on her lap, intending to kill him. But a miracle happened—Holika was burned to ashes, while Prahlad emerged unscathed, signifying the triumph of devotion and truth over evil.
Holi Rituals and Traditions
On the evening of Holi, people light the Holika bonfire, perform rituals, and offer coconuts and betelnuts (shrifal and nariyal) to the fire. Families and communities gather to perform parikrama (circumambulation) around the fire, seeking blessings. Newlyweds also take part, praying for a happy married life. Women pray for the health and well-being of their children and families.
Throughout the day, people refrain from eating cooked food, instead consuming snacks like roasted grains (harda, dhani), chickpeas, and dates. After performing Holika rituals in the evening, families share a festive meal together at home.