While we all know that Holi is a Hindu festival, which essentially is a celebration the victory of ‘good over evil’ with a riot of colours, we bet you wouldn’t know some of these facts below!
Just like India, Holi is celebrated in Nepal as well. (Of course, Nepal is a Hindu state!) In Kathmandu, one week before the main Holi celebration, a Chir (bamboo pole) covered with colorful clothes is erected in Basantapur Durbar Square. On the eve of Holi, it is taken down and burnt to symbolize the death of the evil Holika.
Legend has it that Holika, the sister of demon King Hiranyakashyap, attempted to help her brother take his young son Prahlad’s life. Holika had been blessed such that she could not be harmed by fire. So, she lures Prahlad on to her lap and enters a huge bonfire. However, Prahlad who was a devotee of Narayan breaks this spell by reciting his lord’s name and comes out of the fire unscathed, while Holika burns to death. The name Holi comes from Holika.
It also marks the passing of winter and beginning of spring. But, there is a rich history behind this colorful festival.
