Significance of Holi

Hari Om Class,

As discussed in the session earlier today, here is a quick recap about the significance of ‘Holi’.

Holi is a religious spring festival celebrated by Hindus. Holi is also known as festival of Colors. It is more of a celebration than a Religious holiday. It signifies end of winter and beginning of Spring, time to enjoy the Harvesting season. The color signifies the colors of the spring, celebrated on the last full moon day of the Lunar month.

One of Holi’s biggest customs is the loosening social structures, which normally include age, gender, status, and caste. Holi closes the wide gaps between social classes and brings Hindus together. Together, the rich and poor, women and men, enjoy each other’s presence on this joyous day, the atmosphere is filled with excitement and joy.

Holi is also celebrated to commemorate various milestones in Hindu Mythology. Bonfires are lit on the eve of the festival, also known as Holika Dahan (burning of Holika) or Chhoti Holi (little Holi). After doing holika dahan prayers are said and praise is offered. The bonfires are lit in memory of the miraculous escape that young Prahlad accomplished when Demoness Holika, sister of Hiranyakashipu, carried him into the fire. Holika was burnt but Prahlad, a staunch devotee of god Vishnu, escaped without any injuries due to his unshakable devotion. Holika Dahan is referred to as Kama Dahanam in South India.