Holi – Binding India in the Colours of Love and Unity
By – Mehak & Ashwathy
India is a diverse country that brings different cultures and traditions together. Our country is appraised fondly as a symbolism of colours. From the saffron representing courage and strength, divine white embellishing peace, to leafy green standing for faith and auspiciousness, India’s flag is itself an example of how beautifully we are encircled in the spirit of cultural values. Talking about that, let’s take a look at the festival which is just around the corner.
It is that time of the year when old grudges are faded behind the colourful shades of love and prosperity. Yes, we are talking about HOLI – the day when age is no barrier to express love and affection to each other with a touch of gulal.
Holi is a festival of vibrant colours celebrated to represent the triumph of good over evil. It is the first carnival of spring spreading joyous smiles. The excitement of buying new “pichkaaris” and bursting water balloons on each other is all that we can remember from our playful childhood. The crispiness of Gujiya with a refreshing thandai on holi is always a cherry on the top.
Let’s dive into the uniqueness of Holi from different regions of India.
Starting with Mathura-Vrindavan, cities that celebrate the eternal love of Radha-Krishna, Holi is the most graceful festival celebrated there. Dressing up in the attires of Radha-Krishna, and playing with the blossoming petals to encourage an eco-friendly Holi.
Moving towards the state of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, there is a unique way of celebrating the festival. The people call it “Lathmar Holi” which means to play with sticks. The menfolk tries to colour women who, traditionally tries to protect themselves with their lathis or sticks. The festivities are being lasted for over a week, where people enjoys participating in dance, singing and are soaked in colours.
Coming to the Northeastern Gem of India, Manipur! This place celebrates Holi for over six long days, which is locally known as Yaosang. Here the festival is celebrated with a mixture of North Eastern and Hindu traditions, highlighting a very beautiful traditional Manipuri folk dance known as Thabal Chongba.
Just the way every festival is celebrated in India with love and unity, Holi too has a special colour of happiness that spreads a ray of hope and positivity binding people of the country together.
However, not to forget the vulnerable situation we are surrounded by, it is important that we maintain good health and safety along with keeping up the festive enthusiasm.
So, leaving the hardships of 2020 behind, let’s welcome the first grand festive of the year with a splashy glee and kick start a new journey towards a radiant future.
The entire team of Business Connect Magazine wishes you a very Happy and Safe Holi!
