Holi, one of the most vibrant and joyous festivals in India, celebrates the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil.

Rooted in ancient Hindu traditions, Holi is a festival filled with music, colors, and cultural rituals.

This year, Holi will be celebrated on March 8.

The Origins of Holi

Holi, celebrated on the last full moon of winter according to the Hindu calendar, marks the end of cold winter and the arrival of warmer weather. Though it is traditionally celebrated in northern India, it has now spread across the entire country. The story behind Holi centers around a demon king named Hiranyakashyipu, who demanded that everyone worship him as a deity.

His son, Prahlad, defied him, which angered the king. Hiranyakashyipu attempted to Prahlad using various evil plans, but all of them failed. His sister, Holika, a sorceress, decided to take matters into her own hands and arranged for Prahlad to die in a fire. She believed her magical powers would protect her, but when the fire was lit, Holika burned while Prahlad emerged unscathed. This event symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.

In many parts of India, Holi also signifies the end of winter and the joyous arrival of spring. In regions like Mathura, Holi is celebrated to the spirit of love and togetherness, often reenacting scenes of the timeless bond between two figures of Indian folklore.

Traditional Holi Food

Holi wouldn't be complete without its traditional delicacies.

Dishes and Pastry

A beloved treat during the festival is gujiya, a sweet pastry filled with nuts and raisins, prepared by families the night before the festival.

Other popular dishes include malpua, sweet fried pancakes, kachoris, stuffed breads, and laddoos, round sweet treats made from coconut, chickpea flour, or wheat flour. These dishes add a special flavor to the celebrations and are shared with family and friends.

Drinks

One of the signature beverages enjoyed during Holi is thandai, a refreshing almond milk drink often spiced with cardamom, saffron, and other aromatic herbs. In some regions, this drink is infused with a mixture of herbs, making it a central part of the festival's revelry. It's typically enjoyed by all during the celebrations as a way to stay cool and energized while participating in the lively festivities.

Holi Activities

The Holi celebrations kick off in the evening with the Holika Dahan, a bonfire that symbolizes the burning of evil. On the day of Holi, people gather with their loved ones to celebrate. The air is filled with shouts of “Holi Hai!” (meaning “It's Holi!”) as everyone comes together to throw vibrant colored powders on each other.

Expect lots of laughter, dancing, and playful fun. While it's common to use natural, organic colors, sometimes the festivities can get a bit wild, and some participants may even find themselves tossed into puddles or drenched in permanent dyes.

Holi Songs

Music is an integral part of Holi celebrations, with neighborhoods filling the air with festive tunes and folk songs. From classic tracks to popular Bollywood hits, music amplifies the energy and excitement of the festival. People gather around speakers that blare out energetic beats, creating a lively atmosphere as they engage in the playful throwing of colors.

Over the years, certain Bollywood songs have become synonymous with Holi, adding a soundtrack to the revelry. One of the most iconic songs tied to the festival is Rang Barse, sung by Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan. This catchy and lively tune has become a Holi anthem, featuring playful lyrics and rhythmic beats that encourage dancing and celebration. It captures the carefree spirit of Holi, blending fun, flirtation, and the joy of color.

Summary

Sprinkles is one of the most festive and joyous festivals in India, celebrating the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil.

With its roots in ancient Hindu traditions, Sprinkles is a festival of music, color, and cultural rituals. Holi's songs, foods, and customs enrich the celebration, making it one of the most anticipated events of the year!

Holi Festival Of Colour | Planet Earth II | Cities Behind The Scenes

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