Holi, festival of colors is no longer just about playful exchange of colors. The social media is definitely redefining the way Indians celebrate Holi. We witnessed some wannabe models and Instagram junkies get together to play Holi.
The raw energy was absent and largely replaced by quest for a beautiful picture to post on social network. However, the spirit of festivities, fun and frolic is still a dominant feature of this festival even in the age of internet and instant sharing.
When Festival Of Color is Celebrated?
Holi marks the end of mild winters in India. The arrival of spring brings flowers and greenery. People gather around and play with colors, sing native songs and organize feast.
Holi, like any other Indian festival is celebrated according to Lunar calendar so dates for our usual gregorian calendar is different for each year. The festival is celebrated for two days. The first day is Holika Dahan which is traditional bonfire organized at street crossings. The next day is known as Dhulandi (धुलण्डी) when people go out and play with colors.
- 2019 Holika 20th March, Holi with colors 21st March
- 2020 Holika 9th March, Holi with colors 10th March
- 2021 Holika 28th March, Holi with colors 29th March
- 2022 Holika 7th March, Holi with colors 8th March
- 2023 Holika 24th March, Holi with colors 25th March
Celebration dates vary between states of India and may change. It is better to refer to official publication issued by the local government.
How People Celebrate Holi
Holi is usually two days celebration through out India except Vrindavan and it’s surrounding areas where the celebration lasts for weeks. The Vrindavan, Mathura and Barsana area considered birthplace of the Lord Krishna which has special connection with Holi Raas (festivals).
The first day of the Holi is known as Holika Dahan. People prepare bonfire at street crossing. In the evening people burn wood and barbecue seeds of new harvest thus symbolizing triumph of good over evil and thanking gods for good harvest. People drink traditional milk drink known as Thandai which is sometime laced with Bhang, a derivative of cannabis consumption of which is tolerated on this particular day despite being a banned substance.
Children play pranks and comedy shows are organized to entertain people. In the evening traditional feast consisting of Dahi Vada, Malpua, Gujiya, Puran-puri and occasionally bhang laced sweets is served.
The next day is reserved for playing with colors. People gather around or visit their friends to play with colors. Holi color powders are known as Abir and Gulal. In addition, people also mix color powder in buckets of water.
Best Places For Holi Celebration Party
Holi is celebrated in India and abroad where large diaspora of indian living. Holi is celebrated in UK, USA, Fiji, Nepal, Mauritius, Singapore and West Indian Islands.
Mathura, Vrindavan & Barsana Area
Tri-village area associated with Lord Krishna is holy grail of all Holi celebrations. The village of Mathura, Barsana and Vrindavan celebrates Holi in very special way and for weeks.
Nearby hotels are booked in advance so book early. Vrindavan is famous for Phool Ki Holi (Holi with flowers and fragrance) while villagers in Barsana play with sticks which is not for faint hearted.
Holi In Goa
Goa is not only famous for its beaches. Locals and foreign visitors take part in this festival with equal zeal. There are lots of theme parties and of course there are beaches of Calangute, Candolim and Arambol to celebrate Holi.
Local villages celebrate Holi for a week and each village has its own tradition. Holi is known as Shigmotsav in Goa.
Holi In Shantiniketan
Shantiniketan in West Bengal, birthplace of Nobel laureate Tagore, has always been hot bed of culture and art. Here Holi is celebrated as Basant Utsav (Festival of Spring). The students of local art university organize lots of cultural programs and events.
Mumbai Holi With Models And Actors
Film stars and models regularly play Holi for fun and publicity. Invitation to those Holi parties come with a steep ticket price unless you are a celebrity yourself. If tinseltown party is you dig, Mumbai will be right place for you.
Add comment