Holi

Holi is a holiday for people of the Hindu religion. It is also referred to as the “Festival of Colors.” During this holiday, people throw colored water or powder. This is celebrated after the full moon during the Hindu month of Phalguna, which is in March. One of the stories that come along with Holi is that Krishna and Radha used to playfully splash their maids. Another story that comes along with Holi is that the vibrant colors is meant to celebrate spring.Holi has been celebrated in India since ancient times. Originally, Holi was an agricultural holiday to celebrate the coming of spring.

It was meant to get rid of the gloom that came with winter, and let go and celebrate spring. The last story, according to Religion Facts, is based off an evil king. “The legend commemorated by the festival of Holi involves an evil king named Hiranyakashipu. He forbade his son Prahlad from worshipping Vishnu, but Radhu continued to do offer prayers to the god. Getting angry with his son, Hiranyakashipu challenged Prahlad to sit on a pyre with his wicked aunt Holika who was believed to be immune to fire. (In an alternate version, Holika put herself and Prahlad on the fire on orders from her brother.) Prahlad accepted the challenge and prayed to Vishnu to keep him safe. When the fire started, everyone watched in amazement as Holika was burnt to death, while Prahlad survived without a scar to show for it. The burning of Holika is celebrated as Holi. According to some accounts, Holika begged Prahlad for forgiveness before her demise, and he decreed that she would be remembered every year at Holi.”

Recently, students from the Dayton Regional STEM School participated in Holi. About 12 students made their way to the festival, some Hindu and some not. Colors were spread, along with laughter and fun. Holi is a holiday that can be celebrated no matter the religion. Anjali Phadke, a student who attended the celebration last Saturday on April 30 says, “Whether it is rain or shine, it is a great time to experience fun and laughter with friends and family.”