Holi – The Festival of Colors in Pune City

Holi is the festival of colors celebrated all around the country at the end of winter season on the last full moon day of lunar. It is also known as ‘Dhulivandana’, ‘Dhulandi’, or ‘Dhulheti’. It is celebrated by throwing colored powder and colored water on each other. Bonfires are lit the day before and also known as ‘Holika Dahan’. Pune city is known for its religion and culture. Holi is celebrated in Pune India by the people of all communities. It is celebrated in the memory of the miraculous escape of Prahlad, the staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu, from the pyre from hands of Holika, sister of demon Hiranyakashyapu. 

Holi falls on 19th March this year (2011). People come together to celebrate Holi on this day. The bonfire is burned on the previous day of Holi to celebrate the demise of ‘Holika’. On the next day, people are ready for playing Holi. The elder member of the family begins the festivities by sprinkling the colored water or colored powder on the family members. Then people visit their friends and relatives to present the wishes for Holi and celebrate by playing colors. 

People drench each other in color on the streets, symbolizing washing away of the sorrows. People toss colored powder and balloons filled with colored water at each other. 

There are many versions of the origin of Holi; however, all relate to the victory of good over evil and love over indifference. The festival timing is based on the Hindu lunar calendar. It generally occurs in late February, March or April.