Why Is Holi Celebrated?

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Holi is one of the most popular festivals of India. As the festival is nearing, the enthusiasm of celebrating it is also increasing. This festival of colours is famous throughout the globe and people outside India make it a point to visit the country at this time of the year.

Holi is generally celebrated at the spring time. The festival marks the end of winter and ushers in spring. Hence the people celebrate this beautiful season of spring by playing with colours. That is the reason why Holi is also known as Phagwah. The name Phagwah is derived from Phalgun which is the Hindu month in which Holi is celebrated.

Holi is celebrated all over India irrespective of any caste or creed. But do you know why is Holi celebrated? Have you ever wondered about the significance of Holi? If not, then let us tell you about the meaning and significance of this festival. Take a look.

Story Of Holika
Holi is associated with the legend of Holika. Holika was the sister of demon king Hiranyakashipu. Hiranyakashipu had banned the worship of Gods in his kingdom. But his son Prahlad was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu. Despite all his efforts, Hiranyakashipu was not able to stop Prahlad from worshipping Lord Vishnu.

So, as a last resort Hiranyakashipu decided to punish Prahlad. He summoned his sister Holika who had a boon that she could not be burnt by fire. So, Hiranyakashipu asked his sister to sit with Prahlad on her lap. Holika did as she was told. But as she committed this extreme act of sin, her boon became unfruitful. Thus Holika was burnt to ashes while Prahlad came out safe from the fire.

This is the reason why Holika is burnt every year in all Hindu houses a day prior to Holi. All the members of the family gather and create a bonfire. This fire is said to burn all the negative energies and sins.

Significance Of Holi
Holi is a time when people indulge in the most unadulterated fun. They throw gulaal or colours on each other and enjoy. This festival brings everyone together and all old hard feelings are forgotten in the spirit of the festival.
Holi is also significant because it reminds people that good always presides over the evil. Like Holika, all the evil thoughts and negative energies are burnt to ashes and every person moves towards making a new beginning.

So, celebrate the spirit of the festival and have a happy Holi.