Holi

Holi marks the onset of spring. It is celebrated with colors and great spirit. Holi in Uttar Pradesh is celebrated with great pomp and gaiety.

As the legend goes, Hiranya Kashyap, the demon ruler of the 'Sapta Deep' used to think that he was more powerful than God. He attempted to murder his youngest son Prahlad, who had deep faith on Lord Vishnu. This was because the child refused to acknowledge him to be mightier than the God. Holika, the sister of the demon, who had a divine garment which would save her from fire, entered the burning pyre along with Prahlad on her lap. But she got burnt.

Holi thereby marks the triumph of good over evil and is celebrated with grand extravaganza throughout Uttar Pradesh. The Indian mythological tale tells us that Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, in human form celebrated holi with the Gopi's (cowherd maids). To commemorate this tradition with honor, in Braj, holi celebrations continues for more than a week.

The Rasiya marks the playful teasing of the Gopis by the Gopes (cowherd boys) performed by groups of men and women by means of special holi songs as well as dances.

On the day of holi at Uttar Pradesh, the air is full of gulal and abeer of different colors. People apply it on each other as well as to the feet of the elders of the family. Pichkaris having different shapes and sizes overflow in the shops of Uttar Pradesh.

Gujiya, mathri, laddoos add sweetness to the occasion of holi. Bhang or Cannabis are also consumed by the people. If you go to the banks of the river Ganges, you will find people sitting totally drenched in colors and preparing thandai which has an intense intoxicating effect.

Holi, the festival of colors is celebrated on the full moon Phagun. It corresponds to the month of March according the English calendar.