Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Holi March 11, 2009

Holi is commonly referred to as the "Festival of Colors" got its name from Lord Krishna, a re-incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who liked to play pranks on the village girls by drenching them in water and colors. People exuberantly throw colored powder and water all over each other, have parties, and dance under water sprinklers. Bhang (a paste made from cannabis plants) is also traditionally consumed during the celebrations. On the eve of Holi people light bonfires to mark the occasion and ward of evil spirits. Holi is a very carefree festival that's great fun to participate in if you don’t mind getting wet and dirty.

The festival marks the end of winter and the abundance of the upcoming spring harvest season.

Holi is celebrated the day after the full moon in March each year. In 2009, Holi will be celebrated on March 11.

How is Holi Celebrated:
People spend the day smearing colored powder all over each other's faces, throwing colored water at each other, having parties, and dancing under water sprinklers. Bhang (a paste made from cannabis plants) is also traditionally consumed during the celebrations.

What to Expect During Holi:
Holi is a very carefree festival that’s great fun to participate in if you don’t mind getting wet and dirty. You'll end up saturated in water, with color all over your skin and clothes. Some of it doesn't wash out easily, so be sure to wear old clothes. It's also a good idea to rub hair oil or coconut oil into your skin beforehand, to prevent the color from absorbing.

1 comment:

Ashish said...

Actually holi is based on ancient indian mythology of king named Hiranyakashipu, his son prahalad, sister holika and lord vishnu. Till today before the holi celebration begins people do the sacred pooja in night where they revolve around the fire and pray to god for their blessings.