Ten (10) Lesser-Known or Unknown Facts About Holi, the Festival of Colours

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 Here are 10 lesser-known facts about Holi, the festival of colors:



1. Holi is Mentioned in Ancient Hindu Texts

  • The celebration of Holi is referenced in sacred texts like the Bhavishya Purana, Narada Purana, and Jaimini Mimansa.
  • It is also described in ancient sculptures and murals dating back to 300 BCE.

2. The Festival Marks Both the Victory of Good Over Evil and Fertility

  • While the story of Holika and Prahlad is well-known, Holi also has roots in ancient fertility rituals.
  • The colors and the throwing of powders are symbolic of the arrival of spring and the fertility of the earth.

3. The Origin of the Name ‘Holi’

  • The name "Holi" is derived from Holika, the demon sister of King Hiranyakashipu.
  • According to legend, Holika was burned in the fire while trying to kill Prahlad, leading to the tradition of the Holika Dahan (bonfire).

4. Colors Were Traditionally Made from Flowers and Herbs

  • In ancient times, Holi colors were made from natural sources like flowers, turmeric, neem, and sandalwood.
  • Flowers of the flame of the forest (Palash) were boiled to create a rich red dye.
  • These natural colors were believed to have medicinal benefits.


5. Mathura and Vrindavan Celebrate Holi for Over a Week

  • Holi celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace and playground of Lord Krishna, last for more than a week.
  • The famous Lathmar Holi in Barsana involves women playfully beating men with sticks as a reenactment of Krishna’s teasing of Radha.

6. Holi Was Once a Festival of the Aristocracy

  • During the Mughal era, Holi was celebrated in the royal courts.
  • Even Emperor Akbar and Jahangir participated in Holi festivities, throwing colored powders and attending Holi events with courtiers.

7. The Tradition of Bhang (Cannabis) During Holi

  • Consuming bhang (a paste made from cannabis leaves) mixed with milk or yogurt is a common Holi tradition.
  • Bhang is linked to Lord Shiva, who is believed to have consumed it regularly.
  • The drink is thought to enhance the festive mood and bring spiritual awakening.



8. Holi Has Different Names and Traditions Across India

  • Holi is celebrated under different names and customs in various regions of India:
  • Punjab – Celebrated as Hola Mohalla, where Sikh warriors demonstrate martial arts skills.
  • West Bengal – Known as Dol Jatra, where idols of Krishna and Radha are paraded on swings.
  • Maharashtra – Known as Rangpanchami, celebrated five days after Holi.
  • Manipur – Celebrated as Yaoshang, combining Holi traditions with native Manipuri rituals.

9. Holi Signifies Forgiveness and Rebuilding of Relationships

  • The tradition of applying color symbolizes letting go of past conflicts and starting afresh.
  • Friends, families, and even enemies come together to play Holi, reinforcing social harmony.

10. Holi is Celebrated Beyond India

  • Holi has become a global festival celebrated in over 30 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa, and Germany.
  • The festival’s message of joy, love, and unity has made it popular in multicultural communities worldwide.


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