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Auckland, March 18, 2022
Indians celebrate Holi, the festival of colours today (March 18, 2022), although Covid-19 restrictions in many parts of the world and India will somewhat dampen festivities.
However, the spirit of the festival will remain high since Holi marks the beginning of Spring, a season that brings with it hope, prosperity and all the good tidings.
Holi celebrations are being held in many parts of India on an increasing scale over the years, in view of the interest evinced by people in the five South Indian States. Students in school and colleges, members of social groups in communities and rich people in their own homes throw coloured powder on each other, dance and eat together, true to the spirit of friendship and companionship that the festival offers.
In spite of being a colourful festival, there are various aspects of Holi which make it significant for our lives. Ranging from socio-cultural, religious to biological there are reasons why people should enjoy the festival.
The mythological significance is discussed in various articles in Indian Newslink.
Cultural Significance
Celebration of the various legends associated with Holi reassure the people of the power of the truth as the moral of all these legends is the ultimate victory of good over evil. The legend of Hiranyakashipu and Prahlad also points to the fact that extreme devotion to God pays as He always takes His true devotee in his shelter.
All these legends help people to follow good conduct in their lives and believe in the virtue of being truthful. This is extremely important in modern-day society.
Besides, Holi is celebrated at a time of the year in the Northern Hemisphere when the fields are in full bloom and people are expecting a good harvest. This gives them a good reason to rejoice, make merry and submerge themselves in the spirit of Holi.
Social Significance
Holi helps to bring people together and strengthen the secular fabric, since the Festival is marked not only by Hindus but also by people of other religions, it has acquired universal acceptance. Also, the tradition of the Holi is that people forget their differences and promote goodwill and understanding among each other. While the day is spent applying colour to each other, evenings are devoted to visiting friends and families and exchanging greetings, sweets and gifts. This habit helps to revitalise relationships and strengthen emotional bonds.
Biological Significance
It is interesting to note that the festival of Holi is significant in our lives in many other ways.
We also need to thank our forefathers who started the trend of celebrating Holi at such a scientifically accurate time. And, also for incorporating so much fun into the festival.
As Holi comes at a time of the year when people have a tendency to feel sleepy and lazy. This is natural for the body to experience some tardiness due to the change from the cold to hot weather. Physical movements, accompanied by music, dance and fun, helps to rejuvenate the various systems in the body. Biologists believe that the liquid dye or Abeer used in the colours penetrates the body and enters into the pores. This helps to strengthen the ions and add health and beauty.
Source: Society for the Confluence of Festivals in India
