Holi
Dive into the vibrant world of Holi, where colors paint the sky and happiness fills the air. This article invites readers to uncover the magic of Holi, explaining its cultural roots, fun customs, and why it's loved by millions. From ancient legends to modern-day celebrations, we'll journey through this festival of spring, love, and togetherness, making it easy for everyone to join in the excitement.
When is Holi 2024? | Holi Kab Hai?
Holi will be celebrated in India on Monday, March 25, 2024. According to the Hindu calendar, Holi occurs yearly on the full moon day of the Falgun month. In 2024, Holi falls on Monday, March 25. The ritual of Holika Dahan, also known as Chhoti Holi, will occur the day before, on Sunday, March 24, 2024.
History of Holi and the mythological story of holi
According to the Bhagavata Puran
In ancient times, there was a king named Hiranyakashipu who thought he was as powerful as a god. He wanted everyone to worship him, but his own son, Prahlada, remained loyal to the god Vishnu. This made the king very angry, so he tried to punish Prahlada in many cruel ways. One day, the king's sister, Holika, who had a special cloak protecting her from fire, tricked Prahlada into sitting in a fire with her. But to everyone's surprise, the cloak flew from Holika and covered Prahlada, saving him while Holika burned. Then, Vishnu took a half-man, half-lion form and killed the evil king at a time that wasn't day or night, in a place that wasn't inside or outside, and using claws that weren't weapons. This showed that good always wins over evil. The bonfires of Holika Dahan and the celebration of Holi remind us of this victory of good over evil and how even in the darkest times, there is always hope and light.
How Holi is celebrated in different cities of India
Holi, the festival of colors, is celebrated with unique customs and traditions in various regions across India. Let's take a glimpse into how Holi is observed in different parts of the country.
Bihar, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand: Holi is known as Phaguwa or Fagua
in the Bhojpuri language. People light bonfires on the eve of Phalgun Poornima,
using dried cow dung cakes, wood from special trees, and grains from the recent
harvest. The next day, they celebrate with colors and merry-making, also
cleaning their houses as part of the tradition. Families and friends visit each
other, applying colors on each other's faces and feet as a mark of love and
respect.
Mathura in Uttar Pradesh's Braj region, a unique celebration of Holi called Lathmar Holi takes place. Held within the expansive grounds of the Radha Rani Temple, thousands gather to witness this lively event. During Lath Mar Holi, women playfully beat men with sticks, while onlookers sing Holi songs and chant "Radhe Radhe" or "Sri Radhe Krishna." The songs are sung during Holi in Braj Mandal is in the local language, Braj. What sets Holi celebrations in Barsana apart is that here, women chase away men with sticks, and men sing playful songs to attract the attention of women. Women then use long sticks called lathis to playfully hit the men, who defend themselves with shields. It's a colorful and spirited celebration, filled with laughter and joy.
Gujarat:
Holi is a two-day affair in Gujarat. On the first evening, people light
bonfires and offer raw coconut and corn to the fire. The second day, known as
"Dhuleti," is celebrated with colored water and powders. Dwarka, a
coastal city, observes Holi with music festivals and citywide celebrations.
Jammu and Kashmir:
Holi celebrations here are similar to other regions, with colorful water and
powder throwing, singing, and dancing marking the festivities. It's a joyous
occasion to mark the beginning of the harvesting season.
Karnataka:
In rural Karnataka, children collect wood and money in the weeks leading up to
Holi. On "Kamadahana" night, the wood is lit, signaling the start of
the festival. People celebrate for two days, preparing special foods and
engaging in folk dances like "Bedara Vesha."
Maharashtra:
Holi Purnima is celebrated as Shimga in Maharashtra, lasting five to seven
days. A week before the festival, youngsters collect firewood, and on the day
of Shimga, huge fires are lit in each neighborhood. People gather to offer
meals and desserts to the fire god, symbolizing the elimination of evil.
Manipur:
Holi here merges with the festival of Yaosang and lasts for six days.
Traditionally, the festival begins with burning a thatched hut made of hay and
twigs. Children go from house to house collecting money, while youths perform
traditional folk dances and songs.
Odisha:
Known as Dola or Pushpadola here, Holi celebrations involve special rituals at
temples where icons of deities are worshipped. Processions and offerings are
made, accompanied by singing and dancing.
These are just a few glimpses of how Holi is celebrated in different regions, each
with its unique customs and traditions, yet all united in the spirit of joy,
love, and togetherness.
Top 10 Best Songs of Holi
Rang Barse: This iconic song from the movie "Sholay"
(1975) is a quintessential Holi celebration anthem. The playful lyrics and the
energy of the music make it a timeless classic.
Aaj Na
Chhodenge: This vibrant song from the
movie "Kathak" (2003) is a popular choice for Holi celebrations. The
energetic music and the catchy lyrics are sure to get you moving.
Balam
Pichkari: This peppy song from the
movie "Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani" (2013) is a modern take on the
traditional Holi celebration. The music is catchy and the dance moves are fun,
making it a popular choice for younger audiences.
Holi Khele
Raghuveera: This devotional song from the
movie "Baghban" (2003) is a beautiful tribute to Lord Krishna, who is
associated with the Holi festival. The soulful music and the meaningful lyrics
make it a perfect song for a more traditional celebration.
Choo Le Na: This romantic song from the movie "Hum
Tum" (2004) is not a traditional Holi song, but its playful and
flirtatious nature makes it a popular choice for the festival.
Ang Se Ang
Lagana: This energetic song from the
movie "Darr" (1993) is a great choice for getting the party started.
The fast-paced music and the catchy lyrics will have you dancing in no time.
Badtameez
Dil: This popular song from the
movie "Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani" (2013) is another modern take on the
traditional Holi celebration. The music is upbeat and the lyrics are playful,
making it a fun choice for any age group.
London
Thumakda: This high-energy song from
the movie "Queen" (2014) is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The
fast-paced music and the catchy lyrics will have everyone dancing and singing
along.
holiyan: This energetic song from the movie "Kabhi
Khushi Kabhie Gham" (2001) is a fun and festive celebration of Holi. The
music is upbeat and the lyrics are full of joy, making it a perfect way to end
the list.
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