What is Holi?

Holi is a festival celebrated by Hindus that brings people together to welcome in spring. People gather and throw colored powder on each other to commemorate a new beginning and prevail good over evil. While this festivity originated in India, it is now embraced worldwide in communities with larger South Asian populations, but is shared with other cultures, in support of the tradition.

Why do we celebrate Holi?

Several legends have been tied to the establishment of the celebration. One narrative is linked to King Hiranyakashipu, who was immoral and wanted everyone to worship him. His son, Prahlada refused, as he was devoted to Lord Vishnu. The king then tried to kill his son. When his attempts failed, he enlisted his daughter, Holika, to trick her brother into sitting with her on a pyre (material meant to be burned), since she possessed the power of immunity to fire. Ultimately, her evil intentions caused her power to be ineffective and she burned to ashes. Conversely, Prahlada gained resistance and was protected. Holi is derived from Holika Dahan to celebrate burning away negativity.

Another anecdote symbolizes the love story of Lord Krishna and Radha. When Krishna was a baby, he developed a bluish skin tone, after drinking poisoned breast milk. He became insecure and eventually feared that the fair-skinned Radha and others would not like him because of his color. Krishna’s mother told him to approach Radha and ask to color her face any color, which she obliged and he eventually professed his love for her. Soon after, they became a couple. The throwing of colors is meant to commemorate their love.

Additional tales have been told about the significance of Holi, but they all subscribe to the same opinion- that Holi is a celebration of positivity and joy.

How do we celebrate Holi?

Just as Hindus everywhere revel in Holi proceedings, Cafe Spice pays homage to the holiday and participates in traditions. Signature Indian meals like Samosa Chaat and Chana Masala are enjoyed. Local Holi festivities are held that Cafe Spice engages in. The festival brings delight to all who celebrate.

On the first day of Holi, bonfires are lit to symbolize burning away the evil. Various items may be thrown into the fire.

The next day is about rejoicing by throwing colors at each other and letting loose. It is said that each color signifies something. Blue is meant to symbolize Krishna because of his bluish skin tone. Green can be symbolic of a new beginning. Yellow can be associated with turmeric, which has been used for medicinal purposes. Red symbolizes love and matrimony.   

Traditional music transforms the vicinity into a fun revelry with singing and dancing.

The event has become widespread and highly anticipated each year.