India, renowned for its lively festivities, celebrated Holi, the festival of colors, this past weekend. Globe Aware volunteers can find out what’s the meaning of this happy celebration.

Holi 2024: Date, history, significance, and how to celebrate the festival of colors

The Economic Times
Mar 23, 2024

Synopsis
Holi 2024: As vibrant festival of Holi arrives, it brings a period of renewal and positivity. Holi, a jubilant celebration of camaraderie, commemorates tales of love and bravery from Hindu mythology, fostering unity and joy. Celebrate with loved ones, organic colors, and traditional rituals, spreading love and forgiveness amidst festive treats.

India, famed for its vibrant festivities, eagerly anticipates the arrival of Holi, the festival of colors, this Monday. From the early celebrations of Mahashivratri to the lively culmination of Holi, this month overflows with joy. Beyond marking the advent of spring, Holi signifies renewal, prosperity, and positivity.

The Celebration of Holi:
A Splash of Colors and Tradition Holi, characterized by its vibrant colors, gulaal, and customs, transcends mere festivity; it’s a jubilant celebration of camaraderie and happiness. Legend has it that the festival commemorates the victory of Lord Narasimha over the demon Hiranyakashyap, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

Why Holi is celebrated
Holi Holi encapsulates tales of love and bravery. Among them, the playful exchange of colors between Lord Krishna and Radha is prominent, giving rise to the tradition of applying gulal during Holi. Additionally, Holi commemorates various legends from Hindu mythology, including the triumph of Lord Vishnu’s devotee Prahlad over his evil aunt Holika, and the playful antics of Lord Krishna with Radha and the gopis. Beyond its religious roots, Holi fosters a sense of unity, joy, and camaraderie, as people come together to smear each other with vibrant colors, exchange greetings, and indulge in festive delicacies, strengthening bonds of friendship and community.

How to celebrate Holi
Gather with family and friends: Holi is best celebrated in the company of loved ones. Invite friends and family to join in the festivities.

Wear old clothes: Since Holi involves playing with colors, wear clothes that you don’t mind getting stained.

Purchase or make organic colors: Use natural and eco-friendly colors to play Holi. You can purchase them from local markets or make them at home using flowers, turmeric, or other natural ingredients.

Start with rituals: Apply colours first to your isht dev or Gods. Only begin celebrating holi after offering food and colour to your dirties.

Apply colors: Once the rituals are complete, it’s time to play with colors. Use dry or wet colors to smear on each other’s faces and clothes.

Dance and sing: Play lively music and dance to the beats of traditional Holi songs. Sing and celebrate the joyous occasion with gusto.

Indulge in festive treats: Enjoy delicious Holi delicacies like gujiya, thandai, and other sweets and snacks.

Spread love and forgiveness: Holi is also a time to mend broken relationships and forgive past grievances. Let go of resentments and embrace love and forgiveness.

Stay safe: Take necessary precautions to ensure safety during the celebrations. Protect your eyes and skin from excessive exposure to colors and avoid harmful chemicals.

Respect others’ boundaries: While celebrating, respect others’ preferences regarding participation in the festivities. Not everyone may want to play with colors, so be mindful of their choices.

Holi 2024: Dates and Traditions
This year, Holi falls on March 25th, preceded by Holika Dahan on March 24th, where a bonfire is lit, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

Holi Celebrations Across India
Throughout India, Holi is celebrated with diverse customs. In Bar Lathmar Holi involves women playfully hitting men with sticks, Phoolon wali Holi in Vrindavan sees devotees showered with flow

Holi, with its lively colors and festive spirit, unites people in a joyful celebration of unity and bliss. As the festival approaches, India eagerly awaits the exuberant revelry heralding the arrival of spring.