Holi, known as the “Festival of Colours”, is one of the most joyful and widely celebrated Hindu festivals in India. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil and the coming of spring. Participating in the celebrations, individuals from all across India and the world spread colors, sing, dance, and eat traditional delicious foods. Holi 2025 will be celebrated on March 14, 2015 (Friday), while Holika Dahan will take place on the evening of March 13, 2025 (Thursday). Universe Public School is all set to celebrate the festival of colors with joy and enthusiasm. This Holi, students, and teachers will come together for a vibrant celebration filled with dance, music, and creative activities. together for a vibrant celebration filled with dance, music, and creative activities.
Eco-friendly color play, narrative sessions on the meaning of Holi, and a unique cultural program highlighting the value of unity are all part of the event. Universe Public School (CBSE School & RBSE School) motivates students to enjoy a safe and eco-friendly Holi, spreading happiness while being mindful of nature with a focus on fun and learning.
The Theme for Holi 2025
The 2025 Theme for Holi involves “celebrating the victory of good over evil, the arrival of spring, and community bonding.”
Dates and Timing of Holi Festival 2025
- Holika Dahan Muhurat: 11:26 pm- 12:30 am (Night of March 13-14, 2025)
- Purnima Tithi Begins: March 13, 2025, at 10:35 am
- Purnima Tithi Ends: March 14, 2025, at 12:33 pm
Why is Holi Celebrated?
Hindu mythology has a strong hold on Holi, which has been celebrated for generations. The importance of Holi is explained by two well-known stories.
- The Legend of Holika and Prahlad
Holi’s origins are linked to the story of Prahlad and Holika. The arrogant demon king Hiranyakashipu was the father of Prahlad, a devoted devotee of Lord Vishnu. The king ordered his sister Holika to kill Prahlad by making him sit on a burning pyre, angered by his son’s dedication. Prahlad was intended to die, but Holika, who carried a blessing that made her waterproof, was supposed to escape alive. However, Prahlad was uninjured, but Holika was set on fire as a result of supernatural intervention. This event is celebrated on Holika Dahan and epitomizes the victory of good over evil.
- The Legend of Lord Krishna and Radha
The story of Lord Krishna and Radha is another well-known mythology surrounding Holi. Krishna, with his dark complexion, was concerned about Radha’s acceptance of him. His mother, Yashoda, playfully suggested he apply color to Radha’s face. Krishna heeded her counsel, and this light activity blossomed into the beloved custom of color-throwing, which is today a crucial component of Holi festivities.
Significance of Holi Festival
Holi carries spiritual significance and deep culture, it is more than just a festival of colors. The key aspects include:
- Victory of Good Over Evil: Celebrating Prahlad’s devotion and Holika’s defeat.
- Seasonal Transition: Celebrating the end of winter and the start of spring.
- Community Bonding: Motivating harmony by removing past grievances and spreading joy.
- Religious Devotion: Respect Lord Krishna and Radha’s divine love.
Holi Celebration in india
Different parts of India celebrate Holi in different ways, each with its own unique traditions and customs. Some of the most famous celebrations include:
- Lathmar Holi (Barsana & Nandgaon, Uttar Pradesh)
Lathmar Holi is a unique and exciting way to celebrate Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon. Women playfully hit men with Lathis (sticks), while men try to dodge them. This tradition is linked to the playful teasing between Lord Krishna and the Gopis.
- Phoolon Ki Holi (Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh)
Vrindavan, the kingdom of Krishna celebrates Phoolon Ki Holi, also known as Flower Holi, when people express their devotion by flinging fresh flower petals at one another in place of colored ones.
- Shantiniketan Holi (West Bengal)
In West Bengal, Rabindranath Tagore initiated the celebration of Holi as Basanta Utsav. To greet spring, people dress in yellow and take part in singing, dances, and cultural activities.
- Royal Holi (Jaipur & Udaipur, Rajasthan)
Rajasthan hosts grand Holi celebrations with traditional folk performances, elephant parades, and royal feasts in palaces.
- Traditional Holi (Delhi & Mumbai)
Major cities like Mumbai and Delhi arrange Holi parties with rain dances, DJs, and organic colors, attracting a youthful crowd.
Holi Celebrations Around the World
India is not the only country that celebrates Holi:
- Nepal: Holi is a major festival, with vibrant celebrations similar to those in India.
- USA & UK: Major cities arrange cultural events and Holi parties with colors and music.
- Australia & Canada: Individuals gather in parks to enjoy Holi with traditional Indian food, and music.
- Mauritius & South Africa: Due to a sizable Indian diaspora, Holi is frequently observed, with cultural performances and color-throwing.
FAQs
What do you mean by Holi and why is it celebrated?
The Indian celebration of colors, Holi, marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. In order to spread love and happiness, it is celebrated with vibrant colors, sweets, and happy get-togethers.
When is Holi celebrated?
Holi is celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Phalguna, which usually falls in March. The date varies each year based on the Lunar Calendar.
What are the main traditions of Holi?
Holika Dahan, when bonfires are lit to represent the burning of evil, marks the beginning of Holi celebrations. The next day, individuals play with colors (Gulal), music, and water balloons, enjoying festive delicacies like Thandai and Gujiya.
What are the best colors to use for Holi?
Herbal and organic colors made from natural components like beetroot, turmeric, and flower petals are the best. These are safe for the environment, and the skin.
How do schools celebrate Holi?
Schools organize cultural programs, arts & crafts activities, safe color play, and storytelling about Holi’s significance. Many schools also motivate eco-friendly celebrations.
