Holi is the most widely celebrated event in India. It has become a representation of Indian culture in all over the world. It celebrates the human habitat in full bloom, i.e. spring season. Nothing could be a better representative of spring other than beautiful amalgamations of colours. Holi is the name of that amalgamation. It’s not only a symbol of spring but also acts as an equalizer between different socioeconomic communities. In a nutshell, Holi eliminates differences, and brings people closer to each other. There have been few gables attached with the legendry history of Holi.
It’s believed that there used to be an evil ruler called Hirnakashyip. His pride and strength had overpowered himself so much that he started to believe that he was more powerful and worth worshipping even more than Lord Vishnu. So he casted a kingdom wide order of punishment of any person who is caught worshipping Lord Vishnu.
To his utter surprise, his own son Bhakta Prahlad went againt his father’s wishes, and kept praying to Lord Vishnu. The king had to stand by his word as well as vent out his extreme anger. So he ordered his son to be killed by throwing him down a hill. But to king’s utmost infuriation, his son was saved by Lord Vishnu due to his complete devotion to him, and rebellion for the King.
This time king Hirnakashyip sought his sister’s help. Her sister, Holika, had the unique ability to walk safely through fire. So she planned a trap for Prahlad. She took him into the centre of fire, in order to finish him. But Lord Vishnu intervened again, and instead of Prahlad, Holika was burnt alive. Holi is thus named after her. It’s a celebration of victory of good over evil. Holi will probably stay as the most famous religious festival in India, but it’s most extensive celebration occurs in Uttar Pradesh.
|
