India is a land of several cultures, traditions, and festivals. Various festivals are celebrated here with great fervor, zeal, and enthusiasm. Holi is one of India's most famous and biggest festival, celebrated with great pomp and show by Indian residents. It is also recognized as the "Festival of Spring" and the "Festival of Colors." The vibrant colors of Holi bring happiness and charm to the life of people. It also marks the end of winter and the start of spring. As per the English Calendar, it usually falls at the end of February or in March. And according to Hindu Calendar, it is observed in the Phalgun month, which depicts the end of the winter. “Holika Dahan” and “Rang Wali Holi” are observed to celebrate this much-awaited festival in India. Holika Dahan marks the victory of good over evil, and the Rangwali Holi makes people forget all their worries and enjoy joy and merriment. On this day, the individuals play with the colors and indulge in fun activities.
When is Holi 2023? – Date, Day, and Time
This year, Holi will be observed on Wednesday, March 8, and Holika Dahan on Tuesday, March 7. In Varanasi only, Holi will be celebrated on 7th March. The Holashtak started on Tuesday, February 28. During Holashtak, eight days before Holi, any auspicious thing or work is forbidden.
Holi Significance, Rituals, and Celebrations
Holi is celebrated to celebrate and signify the eternal and divine affection of Radha-Krishna. As mentioned earlier, it also signifies the victory of good over evil. Holi is celebrated as a two-day festival – "Choti Holi or Holika Dahan" and "Rang Wali Holi." The Rang Wali Holi is also known by other names such as Dhulandi, Fagwah, Doljatra, and Dhuleti.
On the day of Holika Dahan, people lit bonfires in the evening as per the auspicious time. On the day of Holi, people play with vibrant colors. They wear white clothes usually to feel bright and colorful when colors or "gulal" are smeared on them. It is best to play with safe, natural flowers, Kumkum, and turmeric colors. Various delicious delicacies, such as "Gujiya," are prepared and distributed among family members, neighbors, and loved ones. People enjoy folk or Holi songs to add more to the joy of this festival.
In the destinations like Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, Jaipur, and Kolkata, there are special celebrations to make it more enthralling and spiritual for the devotees. In Vrindavan, Holi is celebrated as "Phoolon ki Holi," which begins with the splashes of flowers, which makes it full of merriment and happiness.
We wish this festival may bring colors of real bliss, success, and good luck. We Wish You All a Very Happy Holi! We also wish every woman A Very Happy Women's Day!