Holi – Date and Time, the festival of colours, marks the beginning of spring and the end of winter. The festival signifies the triumph of good over evil. The colour and vibrancy of the festival represent the different aspects of life. This year Holi 2023, the festival of colours falls on March 8, 2023.
So start planning your celebration now, and stock up on colourful powders and water guns!
Holi 2023 Celebrated in India
| Date | Holiday | States |
|---|---|---|
| March 8, 2023, Day – Wednesday | Holi | Across the Nations, India |
Holi Purnima and Holika Dahan Muhurat (Time) 2023
| Happy Holi 2023 | ||
| Occasion | Time/Muhurat | Date |
| Starting time of Purnima Tithi | 4:17 PM | 7th March 2023 |
| Ending time of Purnima Tithi | 6:09 PM | 7th March 2023 |
| Duration of Holika Dahan | 2 hours and 27 minutes | 7th March 2023 |
| Timings for Holika Dahan | 6:24 PM to 8:51 PM | 7th March 2023 |
History of Holi
Holi has its roots in Hindu mythology. Some believe Holi was originally a fertility festival meant to celebrate the arrival of spring. Others believe that it was a way to commemorate the victory of good over evil. Whatever its origins, Holi is now a cherished tradition for Hindus all over the world.
The legend of Hiranyakashipu and Holika is associated with the festival of Holi in many places. Hiranyakashipu, a demon king in ancient India, enlisted the help of his sister Holika to kill his son Prahlada, a devoted worshiper of Lord Vishnu. In an attempt to burn Prahlada, Holika sat with him on a pyre while wearing a cloak that was supposed to protect her from the fire. However, the cloak protected Prahlada instead, and Holika burned to death. Later that night, Lord Vishnu succeeded in killing Hiranyakashipu, and the episode was heralded as a triumph of good over evil. The night before Holi, people in many parts of India light a large fire to celebrate the occasion.
The Significance of Holika Dahan
The Holika Dahan is a significant Hindu festival that is celebrated every year. It commemorates the story of Prahlad, a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu, who was saved from being burned alive by his evil aunt Holika. The festival is celebrated by lighting a bonfire, and people gather around it to offer prayers and sing devotional songs. The bonfire is considered a symbol of good over evil, a reminder that truth and righteousness will always triumph in the end. This year, Holika Dahan will be celebrated on March 7, 2023. The shubh muhurat for the Holi puja starts at 6:24 pm and ends at 8:51 pm.
Celebration of Holi in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar
Holi is a much-anticipated festival in the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. It is celebrated with great fanfare and enthusiasm. The festival marks the beginning of spring and is a time of joy and happiness. People of all ages participate in the celebrations. They dress in white clothes and engage in fun activities such as singing and dancing. The highlight of the festival is the throwing of colours. People smear each other with colours and water to mark the occasion.
No matter your favourite foods, you’re sure to find something to enjoy during Holi. So get ready to feast your eyes (and your stomach!) on some of the most fun and flavour-packed food you’ll ever eat. In Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, some traditional dishes made for Holi include malpua, Dahi vada, and thandai. Malpua is a pancake-like dish made from flour, milk, and sugar. It is deep-fried and often served with rabri, a thickened sweetened milk. Dahi vada is a fried snack made from lentil dumplings soaked in yoghurt.
One of the most popular beverages consumed during this time is Thandai. Thandai is a refreshing drink made with milk, spices, and nuts, and it is said to be the perfect way to cool down after a day of playing Holi. Whether you’re enjoying it with friends or family, Thandai is sure to make your Holi celebration even more enjoyable.
