There is no better visual magnum opus than Holi (29th March) to showcase India in all its colours and emotions. Hindu festivals are social events, grand affairs bringing families and communities together with food, colour, light and love. Holi is one such occasion that is very much anticipated by young and old alike. The event marks the triumph of good over evil, and like many Hindu festivals is rooted in religion and mythology. Growing up, I remember bed time stories with my grandmother telling me about the child devotee Prahalad, being steadfast in his devotion of Lord Vishnu (part of the holy trinity of Hindu Gods) surviving many tortures and sufferings by his father, an evil King who wanted him to renounce God. One such punishment was where Prahalad was burnt alive sitting on the lap of his aunt Holika, who had special powers. His devotion to Lord Vishnu protected him and killed the invincible Holika. There are other explanations for the festival, rooted in love and moral life lessons, welcoming spring after a long winter.
Every city and region in India has its own special way of celebrating Holi, with food and colour at the heart of the festivities. In Mumbai, growing up, Holi for me meant water balloons filled with colour and thrown at friends. Everyone would have a collection of balloons, little groups would form, each trying to drench the other in colours with water pistols. I remember running home soaked to get a fresh supply of water filled balloons, being told off by my mum as water and colour dripped all over the floor. As an adult in London, it has been about coming together with extended family, going to the Neasden temple in London, followed by a celebration with colourful powders amongst friends and family. There would be Bollywood music, dancing and lots and lots of Indian sweets and snacks. This year, we are celebrating Holi remotely, praying at home, with extended family meeting up on Zoom with music, and some fun and games planned online. Though we will miss being together in person, we are all looking forward to coming together online and celebrating the triumph of good over evil, sharing laughter and food, spraying our immediate family with colour and being grateful for all the good in our life. Wish you all a very happy Holi.

Images – Unsplash