Holi

Origins and legends

The festival draws from several ancient narratives found in Hindu scriptures. One story centres on Prahlada, a devotee who survived a fire set by his aunt Holika. This event symbolises the power of faith against tyranny. Another legend celebrates the playful bond between Radha and Krishna, deities associated with divine love in the Braj region. A third account links the holiday to Kama, the god of desire, whose return to life after being burned by Shiva is commemorated during this time.

How it is kept

Celebrations begin the evening before with Holika Dahan, where communities gather around large bonfires. Participants sing and dance as they burn effigies or wood to represent the destruction of negativity. The following day, known as Rangwali Holi, people take to the streets. They throw gulal, a dry coloured powder, and spray each other with water. These acts serve to break down social barriers, allowing friends and family to renew relationships and share joy regardless of status.

Spread and adaptation

While the Indian subcontinent remains the heartland of Holi, the tradition has travelled globally. Diaspora communities in the Caribbean, such as those in Trinidad and Guyana, observe Phagwah with distinct local customs. In Nepal, the event appears as Dol Jatra or Phagu Purnima. Historical records show that Sikh rulers once hosted grand celebrations in Lahore, and Mughal emperors in Delhi participated in the festivities, demonstrating its deep cultural integration across different groups.

Meaning and timing

The date shifts annually based on the lunar calendar, falling on the full moon of Phalguna. This timing aligns with the seasonal transition from winter to spring. For many, the holiday represents a fresh start. It is a moment to forgive past grievances, settle debts, and embrace the renewal of nature. The colours used in the celebration reflect the blossoming landscape and the abundance of the coming agricultural season.

How Holi is kept

The observance spans two main phases. First, families and neighbours light a bonfire called Holika Dahan to mark the symbolic burning of evil. The next morning, participants engage in Rangwali Holi by applying coloured powders and splashing water on one another. This playful interaction fosters community bonding and allows people to reset their social ties.

When and where

It occurs on the full moon day of the Hindu month Phalguna, typically landing in March. The exact date depends on the lunar cycle and varies slightly each year in the Gregorian calendar.

The tradition is strongest in India and Nepal, particularly in the Braj region around Mathura and Vrindavan. It is also widely observed in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and among diaspora communities in the Caribbean and Fiji.

What Holi means

Holi embodies the triumph of devotion over oppression and the victory of good against evil. The colours represent the joy of spring and the breaking down of social hierarchies. Burning Holika signifies the removal of negative energies and old conflicts, paving the way for renewal and harmony.

Holi dates: 2026, 2027, 2028

Questions people ask about Holi

See also

DiwaliA five-day festival of lights celebrated across India and its diaspora to mark the victory of light over darkness.Father's DayA day to honour fathers and fatherhood, kept on many different dates worldwideMawlidAn annual festival marking the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, marked by poetry, processions and feasts.Water lanternSmall lamps floated on water to honour the dead and ask for good fortune

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• How the public holiday on Holi underscores bigotry in PakistanDawn, Article
• How the public holiday on Holi underscores bigotry in PakistanDawn, Article

• Holi on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Traditions differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-07.