Happy Holi!

Today is Holi-the festival of colors celebrated all over the world.  As per lunar calendar the festival falls on the full moon of the 12^th month, as per Gregorian calendar February-March. Holi festival story brings out the unshakable devotion exhibited by Prahlad, son of Hiranyakashipu the king of demons. The other holi story is that of Lord Krishna and Radha, as a child and teenager Lord played holi with gopas and gopikas. Yet another story is that of Lord Shiva burning Kamdev. The bonfires are lit in memory of the miraculous escape that young Prahlad had when Demon Holika, sister of Hiranyakashipu, carried him into the fire. Holika was burnt but Prahlad, a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu, escaped without any injuries due to his unshakable devotion. Children to adults everyone enjoys throwing colors and colored water on each other in common places. Sometimes it takes couple of days to clean the colors on the body. Earliest reference of the celebration goes back to centuries, since ages kings also partook in these celebrations. Over a period of time the significance of the festival is lost, but throwing colors has remained as part of celebration. The festival is more prevalent in North India, now more common in all parts of the world. The places associated with Lord Krishna have festive celebrations up to 16 days. Traditionally, colors used during the festival are made of neem, turmeric, and other medicinal leaves. Earlier gulal (pink in color) was made out of dried seeds of flowers like the palash or the flame of forest. Nowadays chemicals are used in making colors, so try to buy natural colors or home- made to have an eco-friendly holi. A typical drink made of almonds, pistachios, and rose petals is offered to everyone while playing with colors. With Holi comes a sense of togetherness, young and old, girls and boys, all have the same excitement. Holi is the festival of color and joy. Enrich your life with COLORS!

Can't play with colors, no problem, enjoy a glimpse of festive mood.