Holi 2025: India celebrates the festival of colours

RKI Network

Millions across India are celebrating Holi, the festival of colors, with immense joy and enthusiasm. Marking the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil, Holi also signifies the end of winter, bringing people together in a jubilant display of unity and festivity.

The celebrations begin with Holika Dahan, a ritual where bonfires are lit on the eve of Holi to symbolize the burning away of negativity and evil, inspired by the legend of Prahlad and Holika. On the main day, people take to the streets, smearing each other with vibrant colors, splashing water, and dancing to traditional and modern music. The festival transcends age and background, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and joy.

Holi is also deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, particularly the divine love between Radha and Krishna. The towns of Mathura and Vrindavan, considered sacred due to their association with Krishna, witness grand celebrations that attract devotees and tourists from across the world. In Barsana, the unique Lathmar Holi sees women playfully beating men with sticks in a reenactment of Krishna’s teasing of Radha and her companions.

Beyond its religious and mythological significance, Holi is closely linked to agricultural traditions, historically marking the end of winter crops and the beginning of a prosperous harvest season. Farmers offer prayers for fertile lands, adding cultural depth to the festival’s exuberance.

The festival is also known for its culinary delights, with families and friends sharing traditional sweets like gujiya, malpua, and thandai, a spiced milk drink often infused with bhang (cannabis). This festive feast enhances the spirit of togetherness, making Holi not just a visual spectacle but a sensory delight.

Across India, different regions add their own unique flavors to the celebrations, from the grand processions in North India to the floral Holi of Vrindavan and the Dol Jatra of West Bengal, where idols of Krishna and Radha are paraded. Even in metropolitan cities, public parks and designated areas host organized celebrations with music, dance, and eco-friendly colors to ensure a safe and sustainable festival.

As Holi continues to evolve, its essence remains unchanged—spreading joy, strengthening bonds, and celebrating life with color and festivity.