By: Moneycontrol News
Holi, also referred to as the "Festival of Colours," is mostly observed in India and Nepal. It usually occurs on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Phalguna, which falls in late February or early March.
Holika Dahan is a tradition in which people assemble around bonfires on the eve of Holi. This stands for the victory of good over evil and honours Holika's burning. The soul's cleansing and the elimination of bad forces are represented by the bonfire.
The lively colours that fill the atmosphere during Holi are its most recognisable feature. People hurl water and coloured powder at one another, producing a rainbow of colours. These hues have deep symbolic meaning: yellow denotes wisdom and piety, blue represents the divine, green represents fresh starts, and red symbolises love and fertility.
Holi wouldn't be complete without indulging in some traditional delicacies. A delicious dumpling stuffed with almonds and khoya (milk solids), gujiya is the ultimate Holi treat. Fried pancakes called malpua, spirals dipped in syrup called jalebi, and cool milk-based drink called thandai are among more famous desserts.
Holi, also called Doljatra or Dola Purnima in South India, is observed in late February or early March. They hold that Lord Kamdeva, a god who offered himself as a sacrifice to placate Lord Shiva, is the reason behind the celebration.
Not only is Holi celebrated in India, but it is also widely observed in nations like Nepal and Sri Lanka that have sizable Hindu populations. Holi is known as the "Bhote Utsav" in Nepal, where it is observed in Lalitpur, Pokhara, and Kathmandu. Holi is known as "Pulangi" in Sri Lanka, where it is observed in Kandy and Polonnaruwa.