Festivals of Nepal - Holi

• Home
• Blog

Holi – The Festival of Colours 

Holi – the festival of colors, is a religious festival of the Hindus. Though it is most popular in Nepal and India, today it is celebrated in every corner of the world as a ‘Festival of colors’. Holi is an ancient festival better known as “FalguPurnima” in Nepal “Phaguwa” in Terai and Bihar (India) and “DolPurnima” in West Bengal (India).

The month of Celebration (time): It is celebrated in the month of Falgun (February or March). This year Holi is in dated 2018 March 1 and 2.

BackGround & Celebration:

Holika was the sister of demon king Hiranyakashap. She had the blessings of never to be burnt in fire from gods. In the arrogance of her power, she tried to burn down Prahaladha (an innocent child and a firm devotee of Lord Vishnu) in her lap surrounded by fire. In return, she was burnt down to ashes while Prahalada was focused on chanting the names of Sri Hari Vishnu and was more than okay. For this victory of good over evil, Holi has been celebrated from that time onwards with colors and water.

Holi is celebrated for two days. The first day as Holika Dahan (burning of Holika) and is especially celebrated on the Hilly region in the context of Nepal. On the following day, it is celebrated as the main day in Terai and India. However, they also celebrate day first.

People meet friends, family, and relatives and celebrate with the colors and water. It is also a great way of enjoyment for all foreigners and tourist. Thamel, Basantapur, Pokhara and other places are the main juncture for Holi festival. Large numbers of people get-together and celebrate Holi with music, dancing, colors, water and body paint. Holi is primarily special for youth because of the energy for enjoyment. However, older generations also celebrate with some programs. Holi celebration is for goodness and happiness which signifies victory of good over evil.

Friend splash water with color hiding and from behind which is so much enjoyment. Friends attack with water balloons and pump (pichkari) which is very entertaining.

Many companies and clubs celebrate Holi with amazing programs, concerts, and many other ways. Youngsters, with colors in hand with painted face, come wearing the shirt written with colorful words an indication of the festival. Holi is an amazing and entertaining festival not only to Nepalese but also for people coming from different society and country.