Blog: The Festival of Colours - celebrating Holi

Written by Nikhil Balwani

When I first arrived at the University of Birmingham from my hometown of Bhopal, I sought ways to stay connected to my Hindu heritage while embracing my new life in the UK. Being thousands of miles away from home during festival season can be challenging, but the vibrant campus community has helped me keep our traditions alive. Known worldwide as the "Festival of Colours," Holi holds a special place in my heart and in Hindu tradition. It's a festival that transforms streets, parks, and now even parts of our university campus into a kaleidoscope of colours. Let me take you through this spectacular celebration that bridges cultures and brings pure joy to everyone who participates.

The History of Holi

Holi has been celebrated in the Indian subcontinent for centuries, marking the arrival of spring and the end of winter. However, the festival carries profound spiritual and mythological significance in Hindu tradition. The most popular legend associated with Holi is the story of Prahlad and Holika.

According to Hindu mythology, there was once a demon king named, Hiranyakashipu who demanded everyone worship him as God. However, his son, Prahlad, was a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu. Angered by his son's disobedience, Hiranyakashipu plotted with his sister Holika to kill Prahlad. Holika, who had a special power that protected her from fire, tricked Prahlad into sitting with her on a pyre. However, when the fire was lit, Holika was burned to ashes, while Prahlad remained unharmed due to his unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu. This victory of good over evil is celebrated as Holika Dahan, which takes place on the eve of Holi.

Two Days of Celebration

Holi is typically celebrated over two days. The first evening is known as Holika Dahan or Chhoti Holi (small Holi), where people gather around a bonfire to commemorate the burning of Holika and the triumph of good over evil. Prayers are offered to cleanse away negative energies and bring prosperity.

The second day is Rangwali Holi or Dhulandi – the famous "festival of colours" that most people around the world associate with Holi. This is when people of all ages come together to play with coloured powders (gulal) and water, smearing each other with vibrant hues while dancing, singing, and enjoying festive foods and drinks.

The Spirit of Holi

What makes Holi truly special is how it breaks down social barriers. During Holi, traditional hierarchies of age, gender, status, and caste temporarily dissolve as everyone participates in the colourful revelry. The saying "Bura na mano, Holi hai!" (Don't feel offended; it's Holi!) captures this spirit of universal joy and acceptance.

Holi also symbolises new beginnings. It falls on the last full moon day of the lunar month Phalguna (usually in March), marking the arrival of spring. The colours represent the blossoming of new life and the vibrant energy of the season. It's a time for people to forget past conflicts, forgive grievances, and renew relationships with friends and family.

How Holi is celebrated worldwide

Growing up in Bhopal, India, Holi was always a major event in our community. I remember waking up early in the morning, wearing old white clothes (perfect for showing off the colours!), and joining friends and family for a day of playful colour fights, water balloons, and traditional sweets like gujiya and thandai.

The celebrations vary across different regions of India. In Mathura and Vrindavan (birthplace of Lord Krishna), Holi celebrations last for up to sixteen days. In Barsana, women play with sticks in a tradition called "Lathmar Holi". In West Bengal, Holi merges with the spring festival of Basant Utsav, introduced by the famous poet Rabindranath Tagore. In Maharashtra, a pot of buttermilk is hung high in the streets, and young men form human pyramids to reach and break it – a tradition called "Dahi Handi".

Today, as the Hindu diaspora has spread globally, Holi celebrations have gained international recognition. While living in Birmingham, I've been delighted to experience the Holi festivities organised by the University of Birmingham's Hindu Society. The celebrations here bring a sense of home and community while also introducing our beautiful traditions to friends from diverse backgrounds.

Celebrating Holi at UoB

Join the Hindu Society on Wednesday 19 March (15:30-18:00) at The Guild where we'll transform the lawn into a colourful playground where students and staff from all backgrounds come together to experience this joyous festival. The event typically features music, a dhol performance, authentic Indian food, and, of course, plenty of coloured powders to play with!

What I find most heartwarming is seeing non-Hindu students participate with such enthusiasm. Many people report being moved by the sense of community and the sheer joy that permeates the atmosphere. It's a beautiful way to share our culture and create bonds that transcend religious and cultural differences.

I hope you've enjoyed learning about the festival of Holi. To everyone celebrating this season, I wish you a vibrant and joyful Holi. May your life always be as colourful as the festival itself!