Holi, also known as the Festival of Colors, is a major Hindu festival celebrated to mark the victory of good over evil, the arrival of spring, and the joy of divine love. It is primarily associated with Lord Krishna and the devotion of Prahlada to Lord Vishnu.

1. The Story of Holika and Prahlada (Victory of Good Over Evil)

• King Hiranyakashipu was a powerful demon who wanted everyone to worship him instead of Lord Vishnu.
• His son, Prahlada, was a great devotee of Lord Vishnu and refused to obey his father.
• The king tried to kill Prahlada in many ways but failed.
• Finally, Hiranyakashipu’s sister, Holika, who had a boon that fire could not burn her, sat in a blazing fire with Prahlada on her lap.
• By Vishnu’s grace, Holika was burned to ashes, while Prahlada remained unharmed.
• This event symbolizes the victory of devotion and righteousness over arrogance and evil.

💡 This is why we have the Holika Dahan (bonfire) on the night before Holi.

2. The Divine Love of Radha and Krishna

• Holi is also linked to the playful pastimes of Lord Krishna and Radha.
• According to legend, Krishna, who had a dark complexion, complained to his mother Yashoda about why Radha was fair-skinned.
• Yashoda playfully suggested that Krishna apply colors on Radha’s face to make them equal.
• Krishna and his friends playfully threw colors on Radha and the gopis in Vrindavan and Barsana, starting the tradition of playing with colors.

💡 This is why Holi is celebrated with colors, symbolizing love, joy, and unity.

3. The Arrival of Spring and New Beginnings

• Holi marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring.
• It is a time for new beginnings, forgiveness, and letting go of past differences.
• The festival brings people together in joy, breaking social barriers.

How is Holi Celebrated?

• Holika Dahan (bonfire) – The night before Holi, people light a bonfire symbolizing the burning of evil (Holika) and the triumph of good (Prahlada).
• Playing with Colors – On the day of Holi, people throw gulal (colored powders) and spray water on each other, remembering Krishna’s pastimes with Radha.
• Bhajans and Kirtans – Devotional songs, especially in ISKCON and Vaishnava traditions, are sung to glorify Lord Krishna.
• Feasting on Sweets – Special Holi foods like gujiya, thandai (often with bhang), and puran poli are enjoyed.

Spiritual Significance of Holi

• It teaches letting go of negativity and embracing joy and devotion.
• The colors represent the beauty of Krishna’s divine play (Lila).
• It is a reminder of Bhakti (devotion), like Prahlada’s unwavering faith in Lord Vishnu.