Earlier this week, the Hindu festival of Holi was celebrated by millions of people all around the world.
The Holi festival is known as the festival of colors, and is celebrated on the last full moon in the lunar month of Phalguna. To mark the occasion, people throw coloured powder and water at each other. Everyone is sticky in blue, yellow, green, and pink during Holi, a festival of colors and love that ushers in spring. This ancient tradition marks the end of winter and honors the triumph of good over evil.
The coloured powder is thought to be a reference to Krishna throwing coloured water at people when he was a boy.
The story of Holika and Prahlad symbolises good overcoming evil.
Back after 2 Years
For the first time in two years, Holi celebrations took place without any coronavirus restrictions in the UK. Up and down the country crowds gathered in the street to throw paint at each other.
People of all backgrounds get involved in the fun and it is a chance for families to play tricks on each other.
The festival marks the beginning of spring, and it celebrates new life and love.
Dates, Traditions & Ceremony
Holi is celebrated on the last full moon of the lunar month. This year it was celebrated on Friday 18 March.
On the first day people light bonfires and eat special food and on the second day the paint fight takes place.
As well as coloured powder people sometimes throw water balloons and squirt water at each other with water pistols.
People also give presents and eat special food like popcorn, coconuts and chickpeas which are roasted on the bonfires.
It is perhaps one of the only times children are encouraged to get dirty – it is very messy but looks like lots of fun!
source: BBC