Holi, the festival of colors, is a Hindu festival observed primarily in India and Nepal during March and occasionally in February. The date is based on the Gregorian calendar. The night before Holi, the celebration begins with a Holika bonfire where people dance and sing. Holika and Prahlad are both mythical characters, and a holika bonfire celebrates the death of Holika in order to save Prahlad. The festival and bonfire are symbolic of the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of spring. The next morning is a carnival of colors in the streets, in the parks and outside temples. People chase and shoot water guns at each other and throw colored water balloons. In the evening people dress up and visit family and friends and enjoy eating together.
India – Holi festival
Holi, the festival of colors (photo by Amit Thakur, New Delhi, India)
Holi is a good time to be in India for an India tour, and scheduling your visit during a holiday will enrich your trip. As a tourist, you will be able to participate in Holi. Certain hotels have their own celebrations or time with a family can be arranged so you can participate in the holiday. If you are planning a custom India trip, call Susan Geringer at 877–255–7438 or email Susan, susan@34.207.230.29 to discuss including a holiday in your India tour package.
