Celebrating Holi in March - Festival of colours

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The Holi Festival is celebrated by South Africans too

What is Holi?

Holi is a popular Hindu festival celebrated in India and Nepal, which usually falls in late February or early March, depending on the lunar calendar. The festival signifies the arrival of spring, victory of good over evil, and the end of winter. It is also known as the festival of colors or the festival of love.

During Holi, people gather with family and friends, smear colored powder and water on each other, sing and dance, and enjoy festive food and drinks. People wear white clothes and then throw colored powders or liquids at each other, creating a vibrant and colorful atmosphere.

The festival has religious significance too, as it marks the victory of the god Vishnu over a demon named Holika. According to mythology, Holika tried to kill Vishnu’s devotee Prahlad by burning him alive, but Prahlad was saved due to his unwavering faith in Vishnu, while Holika was burned instead. This event is celebrated as the triumph of good over evil, and it is the reason why bonfires are lit during the festival, to symbolize the burning of Holika.

Holi is a time for joy and celebration, where people forget their differences and come together to enjoy the colors of life. It is celebrated all over India and Nepal and has gained popularity in many other parts of the world, as a celebration of diversity and inclusivity.

Is Holi Festival celebrated in South Africa?

While Holi is primarily a Hindu festival celebrated in India and Nepal, it is also celebrated in other parts of the world, including South Africa. In South Africa, the festival is celebrated by the Indian community, which has a significant presence in the country. The festival is usually celebrated in major cities such as Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town, with events including color throwing, music, dance, and traditional food. Holi celebrations in South Africa are also known for their inclusivity, with people from different cultural backgrounds coming together to enjoy the festival.