Holi, also called the Festival of Colors or Basanta Utsav, is an important Hindu festival celebrated for its vibrant colors, unity, and renewal. It's a time when people come together to celebrate the victory of good over evil, painting the streets with a riot of colors.
As the Hindu month of Phalguna draws near along with the full moon, communities gear up to set aside their differences and rejoice in life's brighter moments. However, there's uncertainty about whether Holi will be celebrated on March 24 or 25 this year.
This year, according to the Hindu calendar, Holi falls on March 25. The festival is traditionally observed on the full moon day in the month of Falgun. On March 24, people across India will celebrate 'Choti Holi' or 'Holika Dahan'. Here are the auspicious timings for these events:
Purnima Tithi (full moon day) will end at 12:29 pm on March 25, 2024.
Holi 2024: Customs and Traditions
Holi is a two-day festival that begins with the burning of a Holika effigy, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. The following day, people play with colors made from organic materials like kumkum, neem, and turmeric. Other customs include gathering with loved ones, attending community events filled with music and dance, and exchanging sweets, snacks, and thandai (a traditional drink). Additionally, people seek blessings and well wishes from elders.
On Choti Holi, the ritual of Holika Dahan signifies the triumph over the evil intentions of Holika, the demon aunt of Prahlad, a devotee of Lord Vishnu. Holika effigies will be set ablaze on March 24 at sunset, symbolizing the dispelling of negativity and the arrival of positivity.
Holi is more than just a festival of colors; it's about harmony, reconciliation, and the renewal of relationships. Amidst the joyful chaos, people exchange good wishes and seek blessings from elders, strengthening their bonds of friendship and love.
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