KATHMANDU-March 6 – Nepal celebrates the spring festival of Holi or Fagu Poornima today, with the festival taking place in mountainous areas including the federal capital.
The festival, which marks the arrival of spring and the harvest season, began with Holika Dahan, where a bonfire was lit to symbolize the triumph of good over evil.
On the second day of the festival, people smear themselves with different colors, including vermilion red powder called Abir.
Holi has a special meaning in Nepal and is widely celebrated by people of all ages. The festival begins on the eighth day of the new moon and ends with the burning of the ‘Chir’.
According to Hindu mythology, Holi is celebrated to commemorate the death of Holika, who was ordered to kill his son Prahlad by the demon king Hiranyakashyapu.
However, Holika was burned to death while Prahalad remained unharmed thanks to the blessing of God Bishnu.
Older people believe that smearing Tika made from the ashes of the ‘Chir’ on the forehead or keeping it in the house can prevent any premonition.
Holi is a time of enjoyment and tradition, where people come together to celebrate the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil.
