These colours are said to each symbolise something different – green for rebirth, red for marriage and fertility, yellow for purity and victory, and blue for Lord Krishna. Holi is often associated with the divine love of Radha and Krishna, which is why it is also known as the festival of love. Come, join in the festivities of this sacred tradition, and get ready to scream out loud, “Holi Hai!”

A celebration of tradition

On the eve of Holi, a symbolic bonfire known as Holika Dahan is ceremoniously lit. Witness families gather around the crackling flames, sharing stories and offering prayers for a prosperous new year.

This is not just a simple fire, it's a symbol of triumph over evil, a roaring blaze that sets the stage for the vibrant spectacle about to unfold the next day. This ritual has its roots in the legend of the demon king Hiranyakashipu, who wished to end the life of his blessed son Prahlada with the help of his sister Holika. However, she instead burned in the fire that was meant to kill Prahlada, who survived without harm. Since then, the ritual symbolises the burning away of negativity and the day is celebrated as a victory of good over evil.

Another legend recounts the playful love story of Radha and Krishna, deities revered for their eternal love. It's said that Krishna, with his blue skin, would playfully tease Radha by smearing colours on her face. Holi's vibrant colours echo this playful tradition, a reminder to embrace joy and love in all their messy, beautiful forms.

Indulge in the festive atmosphere

As the flames dance to the rhythm of anticipation, you can join the crowd in tossing wood, dry leaves, twigs, and even roasting grains into the fire, shedding past errors and conflicts in the process. The excitement builds, and before you know it, Dulhendi or Holi arrives the next day, unleashing a torrent of colours and water!

Don't be surprised if you're suddenly showered with coloured powder (gulaal) or playfully squirted with jets of coloured water (pichkaris). It's an all-out colour war where friends and family become your partners in crime. Armed with bright powders and buckets of water, charge into the fray and immerse yourself in the lively chaos. Revel in the air filled with laughter, shouts, and the rhythmic beats of the traditional dhol that pull you into the lively dancing crowd.

Revel in the cultural significance of Holi

Besides being drenched in colours, Holi is a time that marks new beginnings and relationships where forgiveness is a weapon, and joy is the ultimate victory. As you visit homes in your neighbourhood or friends, you exchange not just colours but also smiles and camaraderie. It's a day to leave past grievances behind and forge new connections. This is the essence of Holi – a joyful exchange of colours, erasing social barriers and fostering a sense of community.

A feast for the senses

Holi is a celebration for all your senses. On the colourful battlefield or off it, the aroma of freshly prepared delicacies fills the air. Indulge in traditional sweets like gujiya (deep-fried dumplings) and thandai (a cooling drink flavoured with nuts and spices). Relish the creamy goodness of malpua (pancakes dipped in syrup), or the sweet and savoury ghevar (a disc-shaped sweet) and dahi vada (lentil fritters soaked in yoghurt). Don’t miss the chance to dive into these traditional treats, and cherish a day well spent in the exhilarating revelry of Holi.