Daal Vade - Indian Festival Recipe

The spring festival of Holi brings lots of excitement along with it. All through the day, people are busy in merrymaking and relishing on delicious sweets and scrumptious pakode. Taking thandai mixed with Bhang and several other kinds of drinks is also a trend on this occasion. Since pakoras and vadas make an interesting companion with these drinks, varieties of pakoda and vadas are made on the occasion of Holi. Kanje ke vade, made of Urad dal, red chillies and hing is one of the most scrumptious vada made on Holi. If you also relish on vadas and pakodas, you must try the Kanji ka vada once. It is very easy to make and does not take much time. The recipe is given below.

Kanji Ke Vade Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 kg Urad Dal
• 2 pcs (small) Hing
• 3 tsp Salt
• 4 tsp Rai (finely ground)
• 2 tsp Red Chilies (pounded)
• 6 jugs Water
• Oil, for deep frying
• Whole Red Chilies, for garnish

Method

1. Soak urad dal overnight and grind to the consistency of a cake batter.
2. Whisk the paste till it is fluffy.
3. Heat oil well in a deep frying pan.
4. Slide the small paste-parts into the heated oil and deep fry to a golden brown color.
5. Take care not to make the vadas too thick.
6. Take them out with a sieve type ladle and drain the oil completely.
7. Keep a tawa on the fire and heat crystals of hing on it.
8. As soon as it gives off the fragrance, turn an earthen pot on it.
9. Take it off the fire and fill it with warm water.
10. Mix rai, salt, red chilli powder and whole red chillies into the water.
11. Put the fried vadas into the matka.
12. Clean the top of the matka and cover it with a clean muslin cloth and securely tied.
13. Leave the matka in the sun during the day for eight days before it is ready to be served.
14. Makes about 1 Kg.

Time: 35min

Gujia (Karanji) - Indian Festival

The festival of Holi is known for its colors as well as scrumptious recipes. Several recipes like Dahi Bhalle, Bhaang Pakode, Thandai, Papadi and Gujia are the special dishes for the festival. Gujiya is a scrumptious sweet dish prepared using maida and khoya. It is a must to make Holi dish in most of the Indian homes. Though the preparation of Gujiya requires a little time and efforts, the taste of this delicious recipe is worth it. The best thing about Gujiya is that it can be used as a sweet dish, dessert as well as snacks. It can also be preserved for along time without any effort. If you are also interested in making Gujiya this Holi, the recipe is given below.

Gujia Recipe

Ingredients

• 500 gm Maida (flour)
• 1 kg Khoya
• 3 tbsp Kishmish (raisins)
• 200 gm Almonds (cut into thin strips)
• 6 tbsp Cooking Oi. ( keep some more aside for deep frying)
• 200 ml Water
• 500 gm Sugar

Method

1. Mix the six tablespoons of oil with the maida.
2. Now add some water as required and knead into soft dough.
3. Set aside and cover with a damp cloth.
4. Fry khoya in a deep-frying pan to a light brown color.
5. Add sugar, almonds and kismis into the khoya and mix well.
6. Remove from the fire and let it cool.
7. Roll out the kneaded dough into a small and thick chapatti.
8. Fill half the chapati with the khoya mixture and seal the round, twisting the edges inwards.
9. Deep-fry these gujhias to a deep golden brown color on slow flame.
10. Take them out with a sieve type ladle and drain the oil completely.
11. Note - Makes about 40 gujhias.

Time to prepare: 35min

Bhang (Thandai) - Indian Festival Recipe

Holi is the festival for spreading good cheer and enjoying to the fullest. People smear colors over their loved ones, playfully. Enticing delicacies, including sweets, thandai and snacks are prepared to satisfy the taste buds, after playing a frivolous Holi. It is said that the festival refreshes the body and the soul, because it is all about letting your hair down and banishing all your drudgeries of everyday life. One of the ways to add to the playful element of Holi is to consume thandai made of bhang. In fact, it is a tradition followed since ages, to drink bhang on Holi. Given below is the easy recipe for Bhang.

Bhang Recipe

Ingredients

• 1½ liters Water
• 1½ cups Sugar
• 1 cup Milk
• 1 tbsp Almonds
• 1 tbsp Watermelon Seeds, peeled
• 1/2 tbsp Khus-khus (poppy seeds)
• 1/2 tbsp Saunf (aniseed)
• 1/2 tsp Cardamom Powder (or 15 whole pods)
• 1/2 tsp Rose Water (optional)
• 1 tsp Peppercorns, whole
• 1/4 cup Rose Petals, dried or fresh (gulkand variety)

Method

1. Soak sugar in 1/2 liter of the water used.
2. Wash clean all other dry ingredients.
3. Soak in 2 cups of remaining water.
4. Allow all soaked items to stand for at least 2 hours.
5. Grind all soaked ingredients to a very fine paste.
6. Mix remaining water to the paste.
7. Place a strong muslin strainer over a large deep vessel and press through muslin with back of hands to extract the liquid into the vessel.
8. Add milk, sugar and rosewater to the extracted liquid.
9. Chill for a hour or two before serving.

Preparation Time: 20min

Papdi Chaat (Holi) Recipe - Indian Festival Recipe

India is known for its diverse culture and ethnicity. When it comes to food, people have different tastes, which may vary as per their culture and lifestyle. On the occasion of festivals such as Diwali, Navratri and Holi, people relish on lip-smacking delicacies. Talking about Holi, the spring festival is all about having a lot of fun and playful activities with loved ones. During the festival, people indulge themselves in smearing color on each other, playing with water and relishing on mouth watering snacks, sweets and thandai. Out of the snack items prepared for the festival, Papri Chaat stands out. The easy-to-prepare snack is made using gram flour. Check out the article and get the recipe for Papri Chaat.

Papri Chaat Recipe

Ingredients

• 1/2 kg Besan
• 1 tsp Mustard Oil
• 1 tsp(heaped) Salt
• 1 small tsp Red Chili Powder
• 1 cup Water
• 1 tsp Methi Leaves (chopped fine)
• 1/4 kg Maida

Method

1. Mix besan, salt, red chilli powder and oil well.
2. Knead the mixture into dough for about five minutes.
3. Add the methi leaves and knead for another three minutes or till it is soft.
4. Heat oil in a deep-frying pan on very high heat.
5. Rub some oil on your palm.
6. Roll out the dough into a long strip one inch thick.
7. Cut the roll into inch size pieces.
8. Flatten each piece out into a round shape.
9. Lightly dust both sides of the small chapatis with maida.
10. Fry very lightly on low flame to golden yellow color.
11. Take them out with a sieve type ladle and drain the oil completely.

Aloo Chaat (Holi Recipe) - Indian recipe

During the festival of Holi, people relish on a number of delicacies to satisfy their taste buds, after playing with colors, with their loved ones. A number of dishes are prepared especially for the festival, so that the guests return to their homes with a feeling of satisfaction that they were served scrumptious food on Holi. Thandai, a refreshing drink made of bhang, chilled milk, spices, almonds and sugar, is the highlight of the festival. In addition to this, spicy snacks and mouth watering sweets also form parts of the menu. Talking about snacks, Aloo Chaat is a very easy-to-make item, which is surely going to allure the senses of your guests. In this article, we have given the recipe of Aloo Chaat, which is made with potato (aloo) as its main ingredient.

Aloo Chaat Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 Potatoes, peeled
• 1/2 tsp Red Chili Powder
• 1 tsp Cumin Powder, roasted
• 1 tsp Chaat Masala
• Tamarind Chutney
• Mint Chutney
• Chopped Coriander Leaves for garnish
• Optional garnish - Chopped Onion, Tomato Julienne, Fresh Pomegranate Seeds
• Oil for frying

Method

1. Dice potatoes into a fairly large dice - 3/4 to 1 inch cubes.
2. Heat oil in a wok and deep fry potatoes, till golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper.
3. In a bowl, place the fried potatoes and toss with red chilli powder, cumin powder, chaat masala
4. Add mint chutney, tamarind chutney according to taste and toss to coat evenly.
5. Serve, with toothpicks, in individual bowls, garnished with coriander leaves. You can also additionally garnish with chopped onion, tomato julienne or pomegranate

Bhajia (Holi Recipe) - Indian Festival Recipe

The festival of Holi is celebrated with gusto, by people in many parts of India. It is the spring festival of colors, which brings with it the warmth of the season and vanishes the chillness of winter, the preceding season. The festive occasion is all about playing with vibrant colors, splashing water over each other. In addition to this, people relish on a number of lip-smacking delicacies that are prepared especially for the festival. For instance, Onion Bhajia is made at the social gatherings and family get-together, during Holi. The tasty and crunchy snack is very easy to make. In this article, we have provided the recipe for Onion Bhajia (Onion Fritters).

Onion Bhajia Recipe

Ingredients

• Chickpea Flour (Besan)
• 1 cup Oil
• 2 tbsp Ground Cumin
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 1/2 tsp Chopped Green Chillies (Jalapeno) 1-2 each
• 1/2 cup Water
• 1 1/2 cup Sliced Onion

Method

1. Mix first set of ingredients well. Beat in a blender for 4-5 minutes to incorporate air (this will make the batter fluffier).
2. Let batter rest 1/2 hour in a warm place.
3. Dip onions in batter to coat.
4. Deep fry in oil that is heated to 375°.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
6. Serve with cilantro or mint chutney.

Jaljeera (Holi Recipe) - Indian Festival

The spring festival of Holi brings in freshness in the air. All through the day, people indulge in merrymaking, relish on melt-in-the-mouth sweets and enjoy having thandai that is mixed with Bhang. Since eating pakoras and vadas made of bhang and drinking thandai made of bhang is a tradition that is followed since ages, people do not miss out their part of the drink. However, if you want to try out something different, very unconventional for Holi, then make Jaljeera. A refreshing drink, Jaljeera tastes good and contains no bhang at all! Therefore, you do not have to worry about the after effects of bhang, while relishing on jaljeera. Here in this article, we have provided the easy recipe for Jaljeera.

Jaljeera Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp Dry Cumin Seeds, roasted and ground
• 2 tbsp Mint Leaves Paste
• 1/2 tsp Cilantro Leaves Paste
• 1 tbsp Dried Mango Powder (Amchur)
• 1/2 tsp Black Salt (also known as Rock Salt)
• 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
• Pinch Sugar
• 5 cups Cold Water
• 2 tbsp Mint Leaves (for garnishing)

Method

1. In a bowl mix all of the above ingredients except the water and mix well.
2. Add the cold water.
3. Garnish with mint leaves.

Holi Recipes - Indian Festivals

Any Indian festival is incomplete without grand feast and scrumptious recipes. As Holi is one of the most popular festivals in the country, Holi is also celebrated along with several interesting delicacies. Though the traditional recipes vary from family to family and place to place, one thing that remains the same is the zeal with which these delicacies are prepared for this occasion. Sweets are the vital element of Holi celebrations in any part of India. In fact, the festival of Holi is renowned for the umpteen varieties of sweets prepared on the occasion.

There are some universal sweets and dishes that are prepared throughout the length and the breadth in the country on this occasion. One of the most popular desserts of Holi is 'Gujhia', which is a must for every Indian home during the season. Then, there are 'papris' and 'dahi vade' or ‘dahi-bhalles’ that are prepared in majority of Indian homes on the occasion. The intoxicating 'bhang-ke-vade' and ‘thadai’, the sauf and bhang sharabat are the special recipes reserved for the Holi celebrations. If you are looking for these traditional Holi items, you need not go anywhere else. Here we have given the recipe of several traditional Holi special dishes. Hope you enjoy eating them as well as serving them on the festival of Holi.

Indian Festival - Holi Gift Rituals

Holi is one of the most important festivals of India. Apart from being the festival of color and joy, it binds the nation together. It is one of the ancient festivals celebrated in the country and therefore, has many rituals linked with it. As a part of these rituals, gifts are exchanged between people. This enhances the importance of gifts on Holi. The ritual of exchanging gifts plays an important role in restoring cordial relations with your near and dear ones. You may present different gifts to different people, depending on the kind of relation you share with them. Know more about the Holi gift ritual, in the following lines.

Gift Rituals On Holi

Exchange Of Sweets

Sweets are the essence of any festival, without which the celebrations seem incomplete. In India, sweets have a special importance, as they are considered auspicious and a way of sharing happiness. As a result, sweet shops are seen crowded with people buying sweets for their relatives and friends, on the festive occasions such as Holi. Shop keepers prepare traditional sweets with attractive packaging, to lure the customers. On the eve of Holi, people pay visits to their associates, relatives and exchange sweets and homemade delicacies, to strengthen their bond and to wish them happiness and prosperity. This is one of the most popular Holi rituals amongst Indians. Gujia is the most popular sweet of Holi, which is both prepared at home as well as exchanged as a gift.

Clothes For Married Daughters

Another important ritual associated with Holi is presenting new clothes to the newly married daughters. In some of the states of India, the girl is given one traditional sari called 'Dandia' and another sari that is teamed with all the accessories. Dandia is actually a white sari, of voile or 'mulmul'. Its borders on all four sides are dyed with non fast colors called 'Indian Pink', such that two to three inches of sari catches color. Further, a gold and silver border is edged on the sari, which is known as 'Gota'. The pallu (the area of the sari which covers head), is decorated with 'kiran' or a fine fringe of gold or silver. As per the rituals, it is a must for the newly wed bride to wear this splendid sari.

Gifts For Son-in-Law

In some parts of India, sons-in-law are also given gifts on the occasion of Holi. After a Holi meal, it is customary to present him with money, according to your own wish. Apart from providing money, you may also present clothes to him. With the changing trend, a number of items have been purchased as gifts for son-in-law, on the festive occasion of Holi. For instance, some shop for gadgets such as iPod, mobile phone, portable DVD player, while others would prefer keepsakes such as photo frames and key rings. Nonetheless, the tradition of presenting money to the son-in-law remains as one of the gift rituals of Holi.

Indian Festival - Holi Cards

Cards are one of the traditional ways of expressing feelings. They are the best way to give words and images to human emotions. Sending greetings cards on different occasions had been one of the most popular traditions. Earlier cards were simple, with plain words and less graphics. Today, attention is paid on all aspects of the cards, from designing to layout, from content to images. A huge emphasis is put on making the cards more and more expressive as well as appealing. Holi festival is also one such occasion when you can send cards to your near and dear ones.

Holi Greeting Cards

Holi Special Cards

Holi is a colorful, vibrant festival celebrated all over India with great zeal. For those who are staying away from their home and family, cards are a good medium of sending and receiving wishes, to and from loved ones. Colors are of utmost important, when you think of Holi celebrations. During Holi, there is a wide variety of cards available, with a personal touch to each one of them. The ones in vogue are cards with packets of Holi colors attached with them. You can even get small water guns attached to the greeting cards, which add to the fervor of the festival.

For the convenience of the customers, cards are classified according to the different relations, such as mom-dad, brother, sister, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, beloved, etc. The content and design of these cards is also decided keeping in mind the age and nature of the person. For instance, cards for elderly people are sober, while the ones for friends are full of jokes and pranks. Another evolving feature of Holi cards is that they are now available in Hindi. This has made the cards more user-friendly, which now cater to a larger spectrum of people.

Electronics Cards (E-cards)

With the advent of technology, cards have gone through a massive evolution. The trend of sending E cards is gradually picking up. E cards are one of the most convenient, fast and effective way of sending greetings to the ones you care for. Therefore, several companies on the net have come up with new and innovative ideas of sharing cards with each other. You can personalize these greetings, thereby adding a personal touch to them and send them to you loved ones at the click of a button.

Mobile Greetings

Mobiles are no more a luxury for the people and are used by a major chunk of the population. This has given rise to the trend of sending greetings on mobiles via SMS service. By the means of this service, you can send brief messages instantly. Mobile phones also provide the facility of sending picture messages, your own pictures and MMS clips. This way, you can not only wish your friends and relatives, but also share your own festival experience with them.

Indian Festivals - Holi Gifts

Holi is one of the main festivals of India and is celebrated with great pomp and show throughout the country. It is a festival, which conveys the message of love, trust and brotherhood. Therefore, a Holi gift is a symbol of cordial relations and affection between the giver and the taker. The Holi gift should thus exude positive vibrations and warmth for the recipient. These gifts will help you to strengthen your relations with those whom you care about. Given below are some tips and ideas for Holi gifts, which will help you in making a suitable choice.

Holi Gift Ideas

Sweets/ Chocolates

Festivals in India are incomplete without sweets. They form an integral part of the festivals and their celebrations. Therefore, to enrich the spirit of festivity, you can give traditional sweets like Gujiya, as Holi gift. A box of chocolate can also serve the purpose.

Apparels

Clothes are also one of the preferred choices as gifts on festive occasions. You can gift beautifully designed suits, skirts, shirts, kurtas and saris, on the occasion of Holi.

Dry Fruits

Dry Fruits are all time favorites as gift items. They have unique classy appeal and are liked by all.

Holi Color Pack

Holi is the festival of colors, thus, what better gift can be given, than the color pack itself. These are readily available in the market and contain a variety of colors like magical colors, sprays, gulal, water colors and balloons.

Cassettes and CDs

A CD or Cassette of Holi Special songs can also be given. These songs will add more color to your Holi, making it fun filled and musical.

Holi Gift Hampers

Markets are packed with varied gift hampers for the occasion. These hampers contain designed trays with sweets, idol of Lord Krishna, diyas, gulal, abeer, etc.

Idols

Idols are also widely preferred as gift items for Holi. You can present idol of Lord Ganesha, Lord Krishna and Radha, etc.

Gifts for Kids

To lure kids on Holi, you can present them water gun sprinklers, masks and colored hats.

Tips for Selecting Holi Gifts

The gift should reflect the true spirit of the festival and should be able to convey your message.

You relation with the recipient should be kept in mind while selecting the gift.

Buy the gift according to your own budget, to avoid any lack of focus.

If possible present the gift keeping in mind the likes and dislikes of the recipient, or give something they wanted since long.

Holi Cards

Cards are one of the traditional ways of expressing feelings. They are the best way to give words and images to human emotions. Sending greetings cards on different occasions had been one of the most popular traditions. Earlier cards were simple, with plain words and less graphics. Today, attention is paid on all aspects of the cards, from designing to layout, from content to images.

Holi Gift Rituals

Holi is one of the most important festivals of India. Apart from being the festival of color and joy, it binds the nation together. It is one of the ancient festivals celebrated in the country and therefore, has many rituals linked with it. As a part of these rituals, gifts are exchanged between people. This enhances the importance of gifts on Holi. The ritual of exchanging gifts plays an important role in restoring cordial relations with your near and dear ones.

Indian Festival - Holi Rituals

Holi is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm throughout the country. The wave of joy and verve fills the entire atmosphere. Not only the season starts draping a colorful and floral spirit of spring but the enthusiasm of the people towards this festival also brings colorfulness to the life of every creature in the atmosphere. The preparation of the festival also begins months before the actual celebrations and by the time of its arrival, the aroma of scrumptious dishes arouses the completely festive side of an individual. Though the festival is being celebrated in the country since time immemorial, it is waited every year with a new zeal and fervor. After all this is the only Indian festival with lots of scope for hullabaloo and enjoyment of the hidden crazy self.

Holi Rituals

Though the festival is a completely enjoyable and ‘happy go lucky’ kind of festival, it is the rituals of the festival that give a completely new definition to it. As the festival is being celebrated here since time immemorial, the rituals are also being practiced since then. These rituals are the reflection of the eternal spirit of Holi celebrations. These rituals remind people of the eternal Holi messages and commemorate the culture and traditions that have been defined by our ancestors. These rituals are religiously followed every year with care and enthusiasm throughout the country.

Customs & Tradition

Days before the actual festival begins, people start preparing for various rituals and customs. The gathering of wooden logs at the intersection points of two roads (choraha) and the preparation of scrumptious snacks recipes at the home all form vital part of the Holi rituals, which we have discussed in detail below. Though the rituals may vary a little from place to place, over all spirit of the festival remains the same every where.

Holika Dahan Celebrations

At the eve of Holi, the ritual of Holika Dahan takes place. It is actually the burning of the effigy of the devil sister of demon King Hiranyakashyap who tried to kill the devotee of Lord Vishnu, Hiranyakashyap's son Prahlad. Theis ritual marks the beginning of holi celebrations. This also symbolizes the victory of good over evil and also the victory of a true devotee. It is also known as Holi Bonfire.

Play of Colors

On the day of Holi, there is no ritual of Puja ceremony in the morning. However, the lot of enthusiasm and fun as very early in the morning the color play begins in the surroundings. People enthusiastically drench each other into water and colors. Some people also use color filled balloons and sprayers on the occasion to spray colors on others.

Matka Ceremony

In Mathura and Vridavana as well as the area near them, there is a unique ceremony called Matka ceremony. Though this ceremony was earlier exclusive of the Braj area, thanks to Bollywood it has become a trend all over the country. In the Matka ceremony, a big earthen pot of butter milk is tied at an unreachable height and then boys form human pyramid to reach up to the pot and break it. The women of the society then make ropes out of their sari and hit these guys from the roof top so that they become unsuccessful in their attempt. Along with this goes simultaneous color play and teasing.

Holi Procession

Holi Procession is taken out in most of the Indian states on the occasion of Holi. In this procession, guys who are badly drenched in colors roam around their colonies and stop to sing Holi songs at every house. They are then gifted Gujiya and Thandai at each door and the procession thus move forward to other places.

Indian Festival - Holi SMS

Holi is one of the most interesting and enjoyable Indian festival. It is celebrated with immense zeal and gusto throughout the country. On the occasion of Holi, people drench each other in colors and relish on scrumptious food. In many states people take out processions on road and roam in the entire city to celebrate Holi. On this day, apart from playing colors and creating hullabaloo, people exchange sweets, gifts and good wishes amongst each other. The most popular way of sending good wishes is SMS or text messaging. Not only it is economical, it is also the fastest and hassle free method of wishing every one whether a close pal or an acquaintance. If you also want to explore variety of messages to send your dear ones on Holi, a number of Hindi, English as well as funny SMS are given below.

Holi Text Messages

In Hindi

• Holi aayi satrangi rango ki bouchar laayi,
• Dher saari mithai aur mitha mitha pyar laayi,
• Holi Mubarak!
• Lal, gulabi, neela, pila hathon me liya samet,
• Holi ke din rangenge sajni, kar ke meethi bhent
• Holi ki hardik badhai!
• Pichkari ki Dhar,
• Gulal ki bauchar,
• Apno ka pyar,
• Yahi hai yaaron holi ka tyohar.
• Holi Mubarak!
• Rangon se bhi rangeen ho zindagi hai humari, rangeeli rahe har khushiyan tumhari! Holi Mubarak…
• Gul ne gulshan se gulfam bheja hai,
• Sitaro ne aasman se salaam bheja hai,
• Mubaraq ho aapko holi ka tyohar,
• Humne dil se yeh paigam bheja hai.
• Rango ke tyohar mein sabhi rango ki ho bharmar,
• Dher saari khushiyon se bhara ho aapka sansar,
• Aapki aur aapke parivar ko Holi Mubarak!
• Khaa key gujiya, pee key bhaang, laaga ke thoda thoda sa rang, baja ke dholak aur mridang, khele holi hum tere sang. Holi Mubarak!
• Chadenge jab pyare rang, ek meri dosti ka rang bhi chadhana.
• Lagne lagenge tumhe suhane sare rang,
• Aur meri dosti ka rang chamkega hurdum tumhare sang.
• Holi Mubarak!
• In English
• Bright colors, water balloons, lavish gujiyas and melodious songs are the ingredients of perfect Holi. Wish you a very happy and wonderful Holi.
• May God gift you all the colors of life, colors of joy, colors of happiness, colors of friendship, colors of love and all other colors you want to paint in your life. Happy Holi.
• If wishes come in rainbow colors then I would send the brightest one to say Happy Holi.
• A true and caring relation doesn't have to speak loud, a soft sms is just enough to express the heartiest feelings. Enjoy the festival of Holi with lot of fun.
• Best wishes to you for a Holi filled with sweet moments and memories to cherish for long. Happy Holi!

Funny Holi SMS

• Me ja ja jovu hu,
• Mane tharo chahero dikhto hai,
• Ii thaaro kusur nathi,
• Salo sab chahero aaj rangeelo hai,
• Holi Mubarak!
• Aapne dil ka haal batana chod diya, humne bhi gehrai mein jaana chod diya. Holi se pehle hi aapne nahana chod diya?
• Rang barse bhige chunar wali, rang barse o rang barse bhige chunar wali..rang barse, are rang barse bhige chunar wali..re! Ab ghar jao nahi to jukham lag jayega.

Indian Festival - Holi in Mathura Vrindavan

Holi is one of the most important festivals in India. It is celebrated with immense zeal and fervor throughout the length and breadth of the country. Though the celebrations take place everywhere in the country with extreme enthusiasm and zeal, the celebrations of various places have regional differences. The Holi in Kolkata is different from that of Orissa; the Holi in Bihar is different from that of Haryana. In West India, the Holi is entirely different from how it is celebrated in North Eastern state of Manipur. Every celebration has its own specialty. The Holi of Mathura and Vridavan is extremely famous throughout the country.

Legend

It is said that the tradition of playing colors on Holi originated from the ‘leela’ of Radha and Krishna. As Krishna was always jealous of Radha's fair complexion, he teasingly colored Radha's face with color. In a mischievous mood, Radha also ran behind him badly annoyed and shouting. This was how the tradition of applying color came in being and is religiously followed till date. People of Mathura and Vridavan associate Holi with the divine love of Krishna and Radha.

Celebrations

According to mythological records, it is said that Mathura is actually the birth place of Lord Krishna, whereas Vrindavan is the place where he spent the early days of his childhood and left behind tales of mysticism and divinity. This explains the enigma of Mathura Vrindavan, where one can still feel the divine presence of the Lord. This is the place where Lord Krishna introduced the modern form of Holi. This is the reason that Holi is celebrated with great zeal here.

Thousands of people visit the place, in search of peace, every year. The Holi celebrations present another reason for the admirers of the Lord to assemble at Mathura Vrindavan. They come to be a part of the colorful amalgamation of festivity and divinity. The main aim behind the festival of Holi is to rejoice in the love and devotion for the Supreme Being. The color and water washes away all the man made distinctions based on caste, creed, and other differences created by the society. Holy here is spiritually enlightening.

The celebrations of the festival go on for about a week in Mathura Vrindavan. One of the unique features of the festival here is that different temples of Lord Krishna celebrate Holi on different days. It is interesting as well as amazing, to watch devotees at the Banke-Bihari Temple of Vrindavan. The environment is filled with a unique thrill, with people passionately chanting the name of Lord Krishna and Radha. Interesting celebrations also takes place at Gulal-Kund in Braj where boys mock Krishna leela on the day of Holi.

Indian Festival - Holi in Maharashtra

Holi is a colorful festival celebrated during the spring season (March), in India. It is the time, when people let their hair down and enjoy the time with fun and fervor. As the festival falls on the transition stage from chilly winters to summers, it brings in a degree of warmth and fills the air with festivity. Few days prior to the festival, people indulge in the merrymaking. They shop for new clothes and furbishes for the festival. Little children take immense pleasure in moving around the street and splashing water on the passers-by, using pichkaris.

The celebrations on Holi are not bound to the boundaries of North India. The festival is celebrated with great vigor in western parts of the country as well. The people of Maharashtra observe it in their unique and grand manner. To begin with, Holi is known as Rangapanchmi here. Unlike people in the north, the festival is celebrated five days after Phalgun Poornima. On this day, natives play with colors and drench themselves in the spirit of festivity. Bonfires, known as Holika, are burnt to symbolize the victory of good over evil. Read on to know more about Holi festival in Maharashtra.

Holi Festival In Maharashtra

During Holi, people in Maharashtra rejoice by treating themselves with mouth watering sweets and delicacies. 'Puran Poli' is the famous sweet dish, prepared on the occasion of Holi. In addition to this, people also drink sugarcane juice and feed children with watermelons. Holi is also popular amongst the fisher folk of the region. They celebrate the festival elaborately, by singing and dancing. Not to forget, the main attraction of the festival is the pot breaking sport. The sport has roots in the ancient Era of Lord Krishna.

It is celebrated to commemorate the innocence of Krishna as a child, who used to steal butter from the nearby houses in his village. The revelry of the festival reaches at its peak, when it comes to breaking the pot. Trained groups of youngsters form huge pyramids to break the pot, hung high on the streets. Restricting their access is the constant splashing of water on them, by the women folk. During the festival of Holi, you can see every street filled with people, who participate in the pot breaking sport, with much enthusiasm.

Significance

Historical significance is linked with the celebration of Holi in Maharashtra. According to the historical records, the festival was celebrated with great fanfare during the Maratha regime. It was on the festival that five-year-old Jijabhai, daughter of Lakhooji Jadhav, playfully splashed colored water and threw gulal on young Shahaji, son of Malajirao Bhowale. This gestured was considered auspicious and on the very same day, the engagement of the two children was announced. They tied the wedding knot soon. Later on, Shivaji, the founder of great Maratha Empire was born as the son of Jijabhai.

Indian Festival - Holi in Region of India

India is a vast and diverse land, with people of different caste, creed and religion residing within its boundaries. The country is divided into many regions, which are culturally distinct from each other in so many respects. These geographical regions are known as states and union territories. Apart from observing the national holidays, the regions have their own fairs and festivals that are celebrated with great zeal. The spring festival of Holi is celebrated throughout the northern parts of the nation, with great fanfare. Though the basic aim and purpose behind the revelry is the same, the ways and means of rejoicing are varied.

Holi, called by different names in different parts of India, is even celebrated on different days. For instance, the Holi celebrations in Braj Bhoomi, the land of Lord Krishna, are the most spectacular. The enthralling experience of witnessing the enigmatic blend of festivity and divinity is simply awe-inspiring. On the other hand, the pot breaking sport of Maharashtra, the beats of Dhol (musical instrument) in Punjab and the thud of sticks in Uttar Pradesh, together reverberate, to pay homage to the Lord. Lathmaar Holi is celebrated in Barsana, a small village at a distance of about 15 km from Vrindavan. It is known throughout India for its traditional Holi celebrations. No other city in the country can match the grandeur of the festival here, except Mathura Vrindavan.

Holi in Maharashtra

Holi is a colorful festival celebrated during the spring season (March), in India. It is the time, when people let their hair down and enjoy the time with fun and fervor. As the festival falls on the transition stage from chilly winters to summers, it brings in a degree of warmth and fills the air with festivity. Few days prior to the festival, people indulge in the merrymaking.

Holi in Mathura Vrindavan

Holi is one of the most important festivals in India. It is celebrated with immense zeal and fervor throughout the length and breadth of the country. Though the celebrations take place everywhere in the country with extreme enthusiasm and zeal, the celebrations of various places have regional differences. The Holi in Kolkata is different from that of Orissa; the Holi in Bihar is different from that of Haryana. In West India, the Holi is entirely different from how it is celebrated in North Eastern state of Manipur.

Lathmaar Holi

Holi is one of the most ancient festivals in India. It was originally named as 'Holika’. It is celebrated in most of the parts of the country. The celebrations of Holi are full of immense zeal and fervor. It is also one of the most popular Indian festivals abroad. The celebrations of Holi differ from region to region, as if the Holi in Mathura and Vridavana, differs from those celebrated in Manipur, West Bengal and Orissa.

Indian Festivals - Holi in India

Holi is one of the major festivals of India and celebrated with immense joy and fervor throughout the country. It is celebrated in the month of Phalgun according to the Hindu calendar which commemorates with the month of March in the Gregorian calendar. The date of Holi is decided according to the Hindu calendar according to which the date lying on the Phalgun Purnima is considered the day for Holi. Though the festival is celebrated in most of the parts of the country, the celebrations have a regional influence in their rituals and traditions. The celebration of Holi is known as the ‘celebrations of colors and joys’. Holi starts at midnight with a bonfire of Holika and the celebrations come to climax in the morning when colors and music fill the entire atmosphere with zeal of joy and celebrations.

North India

North India is famous for its rough and tough kind of Holi. Legends say that Lord Krishna spent most of his childhood in Mathura and Vrindavana and he was the one to introduce the modern form of Holi in this part of the country. That is why Holi is celebrated with great enthusiasm at these places for about a week. In North India, the Holi of Mathura and Vrindavana are specially known for its immense enthusiasm and zeal.

In Mathura and Vridavana, the major temples of the region dedicated to Krishna and Radha celebrate Holi on a different day. Very similar to these two places, in most of the North Indian states, Holi means getting drenched with colored water and gulal. It is considered auspicious as well as becomes quite enjoyable. The playful teasing by women and attempts by men to color them with 'gulal' and wet colors from 'pichkari', the attempts to escape and beating the men with sticks to scamper them away makes Holi very fun filling and enjoyable. These celebrations are accompanied with scrumptious food and lip smacking items.

Punjab and Haryana

In Punjab and Haryana, Holi is celebrated in a yet interested way. The brides of the families hang a pot of buttermilk high up in the streets and challenge to their brothers-in-law, who try to get to break the pot by forming a human pyramid. Women try to stop them by beating them with their saris rolled up as ropes. This mock-drama is staged to commemorate the playful pranks of child Krishna, who would steal milk, butter and curd from the maids' houses. In the evening, the brothers-in-law bring sweetmeats for the women of the house for their contribution in keeping the family united. The color play also takes place simultaneously.

Western India

Like Haryana, Maharashtra and Gujarat and other states of West India, also has mock-drama of Krishna trying to break the pots and steal the butter. Besides, this ‘Matka-breaking ceremony’, men in these states also takes out several grand processions singing Holi songs and poems. Soaked with colored water, they walk through the streets and sing to mock alert the people of the house in the locality to take care of their pots of butter and milk as Krishna may come in and steal them. At the time of evening, people visit each others home, exchange sweets and good wishes.

Eastern India

In eastern state of India, West Bengal has an interesting and different kind of Holi. In Bengal, Holi is called Dol Yatra (the Swing Festival) in which idols of Krishna and Radha are placed on swings and devotees take turns to swing them. Women perform devotional songs and dances around the swing as men spray colored water and 'Abeer' (colored powder) on them. However, the tradition is being lost gradually and the modern trend of playing with colored water and powders in the morning and then take out processions on the streets with music and drums has also influenced the Bengali Holi. In Orissa, traditions are similar to that of Bengal except for the fact that the idols of Jagannath is placed on the swing here instead of Krishna and Radha, who is believed to be another form of Krishna. The tradition of sweet exchange, feasting and color play has also become prominent in the state now.

'Vasanta Utsav' in Shantiniketan

Rabindranath Tagore, the Noble laureate from India, revived Holi as the Spring festival by introducing 'Vasanta Utsav' in his Shantiniketan or Bishwabharati University, which is celebrated here in a very special way. Students and youths dress up in bright colorful dresses such as yellow and stage a number of cultural programs involving group choreography, songs and dance followed by playing Holi with 'Abeer' (colored powder). Today, Vasanta Utsav has become an important part of the Bengali culture.

North East

If we talk about the North Esatern Holi, the Holi of Manipur is interesting enough to draw the attention. Holi is a six-day long in Manipur and commences on the full moon day of Phalguna. In the 18th century, it merged with the traditional and centuries-old Yaosang festival of Manipur. In earlier times, there were folk songs and dance performances under the moonlight accompanied by the indigenous drums. Today, modern musical instruments have replaced the drums and fluorescent lamps have replaced the moonlight.

Days before, people collect money from the community for the expenses on the festivities. A thatched hut of hay, twigs and sticks is built, only to be set ablaze. Next morning, groups of boys go to play 'gulal' with the girls and pay them money to get the favor. Devotees play 'gulal', sing devotional songs and dance in front of the Krishna temple dressed in the traditional white and yellow turban. On the last day of the festival, a grand procession is taken out to the main Krishna temple in the capital of Manipur, Imphal where multitude of cultural programs take place.

Indian Festival - Holi History

Holi is one of the most ancient festivals in India and was originally named 'Holika’. Celebrated throughout the country with immense zeal and fervor, Holi is also one of the most popular Indian festivals abroad. The celebrations of Holi differ from region to region, however the zeal and gusto with which the festival is welcomed throughout the country remains the same. It is often said that the modern form of Holi was introduced in Mathura and Vridvana by Lord Krishna himself and that is why Holi holds a special significance in the eastern part of the country. Read on this article to explore the origin as well as the history of Holi in the country.

History of Holi

The exact origin of the festival can not be found, though several historians claim that the Holi celebration in the country was brought along with the Aryans. It is also quoted as a reason that Holi is still celebrated with great zeal in the more Aryan dominant Northern and Eastern India. There is also a detailed description of this festival in early religious works such as Jaimini's Purvamimamsa-Sutras and Kathaka-Grhya-Sutras. Several other religious and historical texts also discuss in detail about the festival.

It is said that Holi is celebrated in India, since an immemorial time, even in the period before Christ. However, the meaning of the festival is believed to have changed over the eras and phases. Long ago, Holi was a special rite performed by married women for the happiness, well-being and prosperity of their families and the full moon (Raka) was worshiped for bringing auspiciousness and pleasure. With time the way of celebration has changes. Also, the prominent legends related to the festival have changed with time.

Reference in Ancient Texts and Inscriptions

Holi has a detailed description in the ancient Vedas and Puranas such as ‘Narad Purana’ and ‘Bhavishya Purana’. The festival of Holi also finds detailed descriptions in the Jaimini Mimansa. During an excavation, a stone inscription of 300 BC was found at Ramgarh and this stone inscription has mention of ‘Holikotsav’ i.e. the ‘celebrations of Holi’ written on it. This gives logic to the theories of the historian who believe Holi to be a celebration even before the birth of Christ. Other ancient references like the mention of holikotsav in King Harsha’s Ratnavali written during 7th century and the description of holikotsav in the travelogues of Ulbaruni, support the fact that Holi is not a nascent celebration in the country.

Reference in Ancient Paintings and Murals

Apart from the reference in the religious and historical texts, Holi also finds a reference in the sculptures on walls of old temples. A 16th century temple at Hampi, the capital of Vijayanagar (now in Karnataka) has a panel sculpted with the joyous scene of Holi celebrations. This painting illustrates a Prince and his Princess standing amidst maids who are waiting with pichkaris to drench the couple in colored water. Another painting on the theme related to Holi, the Vasanta Ragini - spring song or music is found in Ahmednagar in Maharashta. This 16th century painting depicts a royal couple sitting on a huge swing, and several maidens surrounding them playing music and spraying colors with pichkaris.

There are several other illustrations and paintings belonging to medieval India that can be found in the temples and palaces of that era. An interesting painting of Mewar (circa 1755) illustrates the Maharana with his courtiers bestowing gifts and riches on his people while a merry dance is going on. Also, there is water tank filled with colored water in the center of his courtyard. Similarly, a Bundi miniature depicts a king seated on his tusker and some beautiful women showering Gulal (colored powders) on him. These are few of the examples which Holi has been an integral part of the country since ever. It existed here before Christ was born; it continued in the medieval era and is being celebrated in the country till now.

Indian Festival - Colors of Holi

Holi is the spring festival of India, celebrated by playing with vibrant colors. The colorful festival is the wonderful opportunity to reconnect to the family and friends and rejuvenate the social ties. During the festival, people smear color on each other's face and splash water, playfully. The festival is known for the generous use of colors, which are produced both naturally and artificially. While gulal is the main color of the festival, which is available in vibrant pink shades, red, green and yellow, other colors, which are a bit hard, have also occupied the market shelves. In this article, find out all about the rang/color of Holi festival.

Legend

There is a legend behind the use of colors on Holi. According to the Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna started the tradition of playing with colors during the festival. He was jealous of his soul mate - Radha's fair complexion, because he was dark in color. The young Krishna often complained about his dark skin tone to his mother - Yashoda. To placate the child, Yashoda asked him to smear color on Radha's face, so that her fair complexion is masked. Obeying his mother, Lord Krishna applied color on Radha's face, which changed her complexion. The playful and mischievous Krishna started the game of playing with colors and this is how, the celebration of Holi with colors was started.

Holi Festival Colors

Dry Holi colors known as 'Gulal' and wet colors or 'Rang' were originally prepared naturally from the flowers and other products that had dyeing properties. However, with time, in the quest of more long-lasting and strong colors, chemically enhanced and artificial colors have come in vogue. The harmful effects of these chemicals on our body and eyes have forced us to do a turn-about to the natural colors. However, you certainly don't need to disappoint as one can create beautiful reds, greens, blues, saffron, yellows and magentas at home, and that too naturally.

Types Of Holi Colors

There are various types of colors used for the festival of Holi. Out of the colors, gulal are the prominent ones. They are available in rose, red, green and yellow colors. They are generally scented, dry and applied on face. Being very soft color, gulal doesn’t cause much stain, even if it is mixed with water. The color is also used to apply tilak on the forehead of guests of Holi. Hard and long lasting colors in the shades of green are also available in the market, which are generally mixed with water and splashed using pichkari. Balloons are also filled with the colors. Apart from the dry and wet colors, certain latex paints in the color of black are also available in the market. Such colors are considered harmful and are suggested to avoid.

Indian Festival - Holi Significance

Holi is one of the most colorful and vibrant festivals celebrated in India. Like many other festivals, Holi has an ancient origin, the tradition of which is being followed since time immemorial. Considering the religious importance of the festival, it is associated with a number of mythological stories. The most popular amongst them is that of Radha and Lord Krishna, wherein, he playfully applied color on Radha's cheek, as she was fairer than him. This gave rise to the festival of Holi and the tradition of playing with colors. The significance of the festival has not diminished since then and even applies to the cultural, social and biological aspects of our lives. Know more about the signficance of Holi festival, with this article.

Importance Of Holi Festival

Cultural Significance

The cultural significance of Holi can be gauged from the fact that its origin derives reference from various mythological tales. This has led to a deep faith and respect towards the celebration of the festival, as Indians strongly believe in mythology. The moral behind all these stories is victory of good over evil, which is a lesson for the human race. The tales instill the faith of man into the ultimate power of God and his mercy over his devotees. Holi festival is the medium through which people are inspired to lead a virtuous life. Moreover, the festival is organized at the time when the harvest is at full bloom, giving people an opportunity to rejoice.

Social Significance

The social significance of Holi is seen in the form of the message of unity and brotherhood, it delivers. As per the custom and tradition, people pay visits to their friends and relatives, to give them wishes as well as to strengthen their bonds. The festival brings the nation together, as it is not just celebrated by Hindus but, also by the Sikhs, Christians, Jains as well. The festival is unique, as it does not discriminate against any section of the society and treats everyone equally. The social fabric and secular character of the society is strengthened, since people work on building cordial relations, forgiving their hard feelings for others.

Biological Significance

Apart from the cultural and social significance of the festival, Holi considerably affects the biological system of our body. The time, at which Holi is celebrated, is very crucial with respect to our body. During the festival, the season is going through a change - from winter to summer. It is the period when people feel lethargic and drowsy. Holi provides them the opportunity to wear off their laziness, by enjoying themselves thoroughly.

The dance performances and the music played during the festival rejuvenate the mind and soul. The color, especially Abeer, penetrates the body and strengthens the ions, improving health and beauty. During the tradition of Holika Dahan, people circumambulate around it the fire. This ritual kills the bacteria in the body and makes it clean. During Holi, people clean their houses and remove clutter, thereby ensuring flow of positive energy. Therefore, it can be said that apart from rejuvenating the social ties, Holi provides a wonderful opportunity to let loose all the tension and de-stress the mind.