Why Celebrate Holi?
The festival of Holi can be regarded as a celebration of the Colors of Unity & Brotherhood - an opportunity to forget all differences and indulge in unadulterated fun. It has traditionally been celebrated
in high spirit without any distinction of cast, creed, color, race, status or
sex. It is one occasion when sprinkling colored powder ('gulal') or colored
water on each other breaks all barriers of discrimination so that everyone looks
the same and universal brotherhood is reaffirmed. This is one simple reason to participate in this colorful festival. Let's learn more about its history and significance...
What is 'Phagwah'?
'Phagwah' is derived from the name of the Hindu month 'Phalgun', because it
is on the full moon in the month of Phalgun that Holi is celebrated. The month
of Phalgun ushers India in Spring when seeds sprout, flowers bloom and the country
rises from winter's slumber.
Meaning of 'Holi'
'Holi' comes from the word 'hola', meaning to offer oblation or prayer to the
Almighty as Thanksgiving for good harvest. Holi is celebrated every year to
remind people that those who love God shall be saved and they who torture the
devotee of God shall be reduced to ashes a la the mythical character Holika.
The Legend of Holika
Holi is also associated with the Puranic story of Holika, the sister of demon-king
Hiranyakashipu. The demon-king punished his son, Prahlad in a variety of ways
to denounce Lord Narayana. He failed in all his attempts. Finally, he asked
his sister Holika to take Prahlad in her lap and enter a blazing fire. Holika
had a boon to remain unburned even inside fire. Holika did her brother's bidding.
However, Holika's boon ended by this act of supreme sin against the Lord's devotee
and was burnt to ashes. But Prahlad came out unharmed.
The Krishna Connection
Holi is also associated with the Divine Dance known as Raaslila staged by Lord
Krishna for the benefit of his devotees of Vrindavan commonly known as Gopis.
