Holi

Holi History

Holi celebrates the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. It is often known as the "Festival of Colours", reflecting its vibrant and cheerful character. A significant part of the observance is the playful throwing of coloured powders and water, creating a joyous spectacle. Additionally, participants sing, dance, and enjoy delicacies, such as “gujiya” and “thandai,” throughout the day. The Holi festival is also a time to mend broken relationships, let go of past grudges, and start anew, marking it as a festival of forgiveness and fresh beginnings.

The roots of Holi lie in various ancient Hindu legends, primarily related to Lord Krishna. Its vibrant colours are said to mirror the spring blooms and Krishna's playful nature. Many of these traditions are still maintained and can hold appeal to people in the United Kingdom. Synonymous with embracing diversity and promoting unity, Holi resonates with those who believe in the power of shared community experiences. It's an opportunity to enjoy a tradition different to western ones, offering a lively and memorable insight into Hindu culture.

In the UK, Holi is observed by Hindus and non-Hindus alike. Celebrations often occur in public parks, where everyone is invited to join in. Participants typically wear white clothes, to provide a canvas for the vibrant Holi powders, and there's often music, food and communal entertainment. The exact date of Holi changes each year, as it is determined by the lunar calendar, but it usually falls in March. Despite the colder climate compared to India, the UK Holi observers bring the same level of enthusiasm and vibrancy, making the British version of the celebration as colourful and engaging as anywhere else.

Facts about Holi

• The name Holi stems from Holiya, who was the evil sister of a demon god that tried to burn her nephew. According to ancient Sanskrit scriptures, Holiya died in the fire while her nephew was unharmed. Since then, on the eve of Holi, a bonfire named Holiya is lit to signify the triumph of good over evil.
• Traditionally colors were achieved through dyes that were made from turmeric, sandalwood, flower and leaf extracts, and beetroots. In recent times Synthetic color dyes are often used during Holi festivals. These dyes are often toxic or cause allergic reactions. It's a good idea to rub coconut oil into your skin before hand, to prevent toxic color dyes from absorbing.
• Holi is also celebrated in other major cities of UK like Leicester, Manchester, Birmingham and Leeds, where there is a significant presence of Indian communities.
• Holi gained massive popularity in the UK when "Holi Festival Of Colours" made its way to London in 2012. The event was based on the original Holi in India but combined with elements of electronic music festivals. It now tours worldwide and continues to be a major event in the UK.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Holi

Top things to do in the UK for Holi

• Decorate your home with colorful ribbons and adornments to recognize the Holi festival. Marigold flowers are traditionally hung over balconies, railings and staircases. Sofa cushions are often covered with bold, bright colors. Walls are traditionally covered with colorful fabric patchwork.
• Eat at an Indian restaurant on this day to enjoy some Holi specialty sweet dishes such as shakarpara (sweet crispy bread), gujjias (sweet fried dumplings), kheer (rice pudding) and malpua (pancakes).
• Attend the Holi Festival in Wembley, London: Wembley Park, London, hosts the Holi Festival of Colours, a day filled with music, dance, and of course, colours. People flock to the park to enjoy the live music and throw colour on each other.
• Read a book to learn more about Holi Festival in United Kingdom:
  Festivals Together - by Sue Fitzjohn, Minda Weston, Judy Large - includes comprehensive information about multicultural festivals celebrated around the globe including Holi.
  Celebration - Festivals from Around the World - by Katy Holder - Although not UK specific, it offers broad insights into global festivals including Holi.