Your Travel Partner
SINCE 1989
Your Travel Partner
SINCE 1989
Holi is one of India’s most colourful and widely celebrated festivals. Commonly known as the Festival of Colours, it marks the arrival of spring, the end of winter and the symbolic victory of good over evil. The festival is generally observed during the Hindu month of Phalgun, which usually falls in February or March.
Although Holi is rooted in Hindu traditions, its celebrations now bring together people from different communities and backgrounds. Colours, music, traditional food and shared festivities create an atmosphere of joy and togetherness.
Several traditional stories are associated with the origin of Holi. The best-known account is the story of Prahlada and Holika.
According to Hindu tradition, King Hiranyakashipu wanted everyone to worship him. His son Prahlada, however, remained devoted to Lord Vishnu. Angered by his son’s devotion, the king attempted to punish him several times.
Holika, the king’s sister, was believed to possess protection from fire. She sat inside a burning pyre while holding Prahlada, intending to harm him. However, Prahlada survived because of his faith, while Holika was consumed by the flames.
This story is remembered through Holika Dahan, when bonfires are lit on the evening before the main colour celebrations. The ritual symbolises the destruction of arrogance, injustice and negativity.
In the Braj region, Holi is closely connected with the traditional stories of Radha and Krishna. Their playful application of colours is remembered through celebrations in Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana and Nandgaon.
These traditions present Holi as a celebration of divine love, friendship and joyful devotion. Events such as Lathmar Holi, Phoolon Ki Holi and temple celebrations attract devotees and travellers from around the world.
The colours used during Holi represent happiness, renewal and the diversity of life. Applying gulal is also a gesture of friendship and goodwill.
Traditionally, colours were prepared from flowers, herbs and other natural materials. Choosing herbal or skin-safe colours today can help make the celebration healthier and more environmentally responsible.
Holi provides an opportunity for people to reconnect with family, friends and neighbours. Differences are often set aside as people exchange greetings, share sweets and celebrate together.
The festival is observed differently across India. It is called Dhulandi in parts of North India, Dol Jatra in West Bengal and Phaguwa in Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh. Despite regional differences, joy and renewal remain central themes.
Traditional foods such as gujiya, malpua, dahi vada and thandai are commonly prepared for the occasion.
