March 2025
Namaskar,
Dear readers, thank you for embracing my blog with so much love. This time, I am sharing something truly close to my heart – a festival that fills my soul with excitement, laughter, and warmth. Holi, the grand celebration of colors, is one of the biggest festivals in the Terai region of Nepal. Before diving into my cherished memories, let’s explore the rich history and deep significance of Holi.
The Legend Behind Holi
The roots of Holi lie in Hindu mythology, with one of the most well-known legends being the story of Prahlada and Holika. Prahlada, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, was the son of the tyrant king Hiranyakashipu, who demanded to be worshipped as a god. Enraged by his son’s unwavering devotion, the king plotted to kill him. He enlisted his sister, Holika, who possessed a boon that made her immune to fire. She attempted to burn Prahlada alive by sitting with him in a blazing fire, but divine intervention turned the tables – Holika perished while Prahlada emerged unharmed. This victory of good over evil is commemorated through Holika Dahan, where bonfires are lit on the eve of Holi, symbolizing the destruction of negativity and the victory of righteousness.
Holi with Family: A Colors of Joy
Holi has always been a festival that brings immense joy and a sense of togetherness into my life. Growing up in the Terai, Holi was never just about smearing colors; it was about embracing traditions, relishing festive delicacies, and strengthening the bonds of love with family and friends.
The excitement begins days before the festival. We prepare natural colors, gather wood for the Holika Dahan, and plan a grand feast. The air fills with the aroma of fresh flowers and the sound of cheerful conversations, building anticipation for the big day. The sheer thrill of waiting reminds me of my childhood—those sleepless nights, eagerly counting the hours until sunrise, when the celebrations would begin.
On the morning of Holi, my home transforms into a hub of joy. My children and their friends chase each other with gulal (or abir, i.e. the colored powders) and pichkaris (water guns), turning the air into a dazzling swirl of colors. Laughter echoes through the streets as loved ones embrace, smearing hues of red, blue, yellow, and green on each other’s faces. The first splash of color on my face always fills my heart with a deep, indescribable warmth – a reminder of the beauty of life, relationships, and shared happiness.
There is pure magic in the mischievous smiles of my cousins plotting their next playful attack, in the elders blessing us with loving hands stained with colors, and in the heartfelt joy of seeing everyone united. Holi blurs the lines between generations and dissolves differences, leaving behind only happiness and affection.
The Feast: A Symphony of Flavors
No Holi in my home is complete without a lavish spread of traditional delicacies. With the help of my family, we prepare mouthwatering treats like gujiyas, malpuas, puris, dahi vadas, and pakoras. The kitchen is filled with the irresistible aroma of sweets and spices, while thandai, a refreshing festive drink, keeps us energized throughout the day.
As I take a bite of a freshly fried gujiya, its rich, sweet filling melts in my mouth, instantly transporting me back to my childhood. I recall watching my mother prepare these treats with the utmost care, her hands kneading the dough with love, passing down traditions from one generation to another. Beyond sweets, we also enjoy a special feast of mutton and cold drinks, adding a unique touch to our family’s Holi tradition.
A Festival of Love, Unity, and Dance
What makes Holi truly special for me is the way it strengthens relationships. Relatives travel from near and far, friends drop by unexpectedly, and the entire neighborhood becomes a celebration ground. We sing traditional folk songs, dance to the beats of the dhol (double-headed drum), and lose ourselves in the sheer joy of the moment.
The joyous shouts of children, the rhythmic beats of the drums, and the carefree dancing of elders create an atmosphere that can only be described as magical. Watching my loved ones with radiant faces, their eyes twinkling with happiness, fills me with overwhelming gratitude. It is in these moments that I truly understand the essence of life – being surrounded by those who matter most, celebrating love, laughter, and togetherness.
As the sun sets and the colors begin to fade, we gather around, reminiscing about the day’s best moments. The exhaustion from endless laughter and playful chases is nothing compared to the deep contentment in my heart. My children, still giggling, excitedly recount their favorite pranks and surprises of the day.
A Special Holi: A Milestone to Celebrate
This year, Holi was even more meaningful for me. As a business owner, I felt an added sense of pride and accomplishment. The colors of Holi seemed to symbolize the journey I have embarked on – full of challenges, victories, and endless hope. Celebrating my achievements with my loved ones made the festival all the more special, reinforcing my belief in perseverance and hard work.
As I wash away the colors, I carry the memories of Holi in my heart, already eagerly waiting for next year, when we will once again come together to celebrate in the most colorful, heartfelt, and joyous way possible.