President Droupadi Murmu has extended her heartfelt greetings to the people of India on the joyous occasion of Holi, the festival of colours, emphasising its significance as a symbol of unity, love, and cultural heritage.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), President Murmu conveyed her wishes, stating, “Heartiest greetings to all countrymen on the auspicious occasion of Holi, the festival of colours. This festival of joy gives the message of unity, love, and harmony. This festival is also a symbol of India’s precious cultural heritage. Come, on this auspicious occasion, let us all together pledge to fill the lives of all the children of Mother India with the colours of continuous progress, prosperity, and happiness.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended his greetings, expressing hope that the festival would bring joy and strengthen unity among people. “I wish you all a very Happy Holi. This festival filled with joy and happiness will infuse new enthusiasm and energy in everyone’s life and will also deepen the colours of unity among the countrymen,” he posted on X.
The festival of Holi has commenced with fervour across the nation, as people come together to celebrate with colours, music, and traditional festivities. From temples to city streets, vibrant hues and jubilant gatherings mark the occasion, symbolising the triumph of good over evil.
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In Mathura and Vrindavan, renowned for their grand Holi festivities, devotees participated in traditional rituals, including the famous Lathmar Holi, where women playfully beat men with sticks. Cities such as Varanasi, Jaipur, and Delhi witnessed enthusiastic crowds smearing each other with colours and indulging in festive delicacies such as gujiya and thandai.
Authorities have deployed security personnel in major cities to ensure peaceful celebrations, with measures in place to prevent any untoward incidents.
Holi, also known as the Spring Festival, heralds the arrival of the season and the harvest period. Deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, it signifies the victory of good over evil.
The festival begins with Holika Dahan, a ritual in which a bonfire is lit to commemorate the demise of Holika, a mythical symbol of evil, and a special puja is performed to dispel negative influences.
According to Hindu mythology, the festival traces its origins to the legend of Demon King Hiranyakashipu, who, enraged by his son Prahlad’s unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu, commanded his sister Holika to kill him.
However, divine intervention saved Prahlad while Holika perished in the flames, reinforcing the enduring theme of righteousness triumphing over malevolence.
As the country revels in the festival of colours, the spirit of Holi continues to resonate, fostering camaraderie, joy, and a reaffirmation of India’s rich cultural traditions.
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