Holi
होली
March 17, 2026
Significance
The festival of colors — celebrates the victory of good over evil, the arrival of spring, and the divine love of Radha-Krishna. On the eve (Holika Dahan), bonfires are lit to commemorate the burning of demoness Holika. The next day, people play with colors.
Story & Mythology
Prahlad, a young devotee of Vishnu, was ordered killed by his demon father Hiranyakashipu. Holika (Hiranyakashipu's sister) had a boon of fire immunity. She sat in a pyre with Prahlad on her lap. But Vishnu's grace burned Holika and saved Prahlad. Separately, Krishna used to play Holi with colors with Radha and the gopis in Vrindavan — this tradition of color-play continues.
Puja Vidhi & Rituals
- 1
Holika Dahan (evening before Holi): Light a bonfire at the muhurat time. Offer coconut, grains, and perform parikrama (circumambulation)
- 2
Apply first color (gulal) to elders and seek blessings
- 3
Play with colors (organic/herbal recommended) with family and friends
- 4
Prepare and share traditional foods — gujiya, thandai, malpua
- 5
Evening: Clean up, visit friends and family, exchange sweets