Holi Festival of Colors
Holi, which is also known as the Festival of Colors, is famous as the most illustrative festivals of the Hindu community. It is not only the most popular festival in Nepal, but is also the most famous one. The day on which Holi is celebrated is a full moon in the month of ‘Fagu’, according to the Nepali Language.
This month basically means the time of February and March according to the English calendar. The Festival of Colors, or rather, Holi, comes after the Dashain and Tihar Festivals and these festivals together extend the period of festivity for up to a week. The celebration of Holi signifies the triumph of good over evil and also marks the commencement of the spring season.
When is Holi in Nepal?
The festival of colors, or Holi, can easily be listed among the most famous festivals in Nepal. It is a known and common fact that Holi is celebrated on the day of the full moon in the Nepali ‘Fagu’ month, which falls somewhere from the middle of February to middle of March. It usually lasts for two days and occurs after the Dashian Festival and the Tihar Festival.
History Behind ‘Holi’ Festival
The emergence of Holi festival dates back to the Krutayuga period during the times of demon-king Hiranyakasap. As part of his efforts to kill his god-loving son Prahlada, Hiranyakasap places Prahlada on the lap of his demon-sister Holika and plans to put Prahlada under fire along with Holika, as Holika has the boon of fighting away fire. However, the situation happens otherwise. Due to Prahlada’s devotion to Lord Vishnu, Holika turns into ashes completely and Prahlada comes out safe.
So, the festival of Holi is celebrated marking the victory of Prahlada over Holika. A night before ‘Holi’ day, public light bonfires across the streets indicating the death of Holika.
Foods During Holi Celebration in Nepal
The celebrations are further enhanced with the help of drinks and sweets. There are also some traditional food and drinks that are a must during the festival of Holi. Among drinks, the traditional one is the green color beverage called ‘bhang’. It is a combination of milk, ghee and butter. Among sweets, the traditional food is called ‘Guthiya’.
It is an old form of sweet which is made of dried milk powder and crushed nuts. Along with the colors, these sweet beverages and deserts never fail to make this festival worthwhile in Nepal. Apart from these traditional foods, there are also several other trademark Nepali dishes that can be easily found in this country, an example of this being Momo.
Travel Tips for Nepal in Holi Festival
- White T-shirts, cheap pants and slippers are highly recommended. After the carnival, you can either throw them away or keep them as Holi souvenirs.
- It’s suggested to prepare a raincoat for the camera. And the easiest way is to cover it tightly with plastic wraps.
- Facial cleanser and shampoo are the essentials to clean off the paints.
- If you just want to observe this colorful festival, the steps of the temples around Durbar Square are the best spots for photography.
What to Do or What Not to Do
- Buy white T-shirts. You can get cheap Holi printed T-shirts.
- Wear old pants or half pant so your new clothes don’t get ruined.
- Don’t wear leather or any new pair of clothes.
- If possible wear goggles to protect your eyes.
- Cover your ears with cotton.
- Cover your mobile phone and camera with plastics so that it won’t get wet.
- Don’t wear expensive ornaments.
- Do not eat anything given by strangers.
- People normally taste Hemp mixed with Lassi. Be aware of these kinds of stuff.
- Better play Holi with your friends and family.
- Better not to visit alone in the street during the festival.
- If you are prone to color allergy then totally avoid the Holi festival.
- Don’t drink and drive.
