History of Holi,a Hindu Festival of Colors

2009 date- March 11

Holi, also called the Festival of Colours, is a popular Hindu spring festival observed in India, Guyana, Trinidad, the UK and Nepal. In West Bengal, it is known as Dolyatra or Boshonto Utsav.

On the first day, burning of the demoness Holika, Hiranyakashipu's sister, in huge bonfires at night. It is called Kama dahanam in Andhra Pradesh.

On the second day, known as Dhulheti, people spend the day throwing coloured powder and water at each other. The spring season, during which the weather changes, is believed to cause viral fever and cold. Thus, the playful throwing of the coloured powders has a medicinal significance: the colours are traditionally made of Neem, Kumkum, Haldi, Bilva, and other medicinal herbs prescribed by Āyurvedic doctors. A special drink called thandai is prepared, sometimes containing bhang.

Rangapanchami occurs a few days later on a Panchami (fifth day of the full moon), marking the end of festivities involving colours. Holi takes place over two days in the later part of February or March. As per the Hindu calendar, it falls on the Phalgun Purnima.