Holi - Festival of Colors

The festival of "Holi" marks the beginning of spring. It was originally known as "Holika" as it commemorates the victory of Lord Vishnu over the demon King Hiranyakashipu and his sister Holika. Hiranyakashipu's own son Prahlada was a great devotee of Lord Vishnu. Prahlada's demon father attempted to burn Prahlada to death on a pyre by ordering him to sit in the fire on the lap of his aunt, Holika, who was to be protected by a magic shawl. Praying to Lord Vishnu, Prahlada was unharmed in the fire but his aunt perished. The destruction of Holika by the Lord is symbolized on Holi with the burning of the demoness in huge bonfires. Holi is also called the Festival of Colors and people celebrate this spring festival with folk songs, dancing and lighthearted pranks.
 

Holi has a special significance for devotees of Lord Krishna, who celebrate the divine love of Radha for Krishna in joyful festivities that last for several weeks in Vrindavan and Mathura, the towns where Lord Krishna grew up, and where He first celebrated the festival by playing pranks on the gopis.

There are many stories associated with the holiday. Holi is also the celebration of the death of the ogress Pootana, who tried to kill Krishna when He was an infant by feeding Him poisonous milk. In southern India, one popular story associated with Holi is about Lord Shiva and Kaamadeva. People there celebrate the sacrifice of the Lord of Passion, Kaamadeva, who risked his life to revoke Lord Shiva from meditation and save the world. Another popular story revolves around the ogress Dhundhi, who used to disturb children in the Raghu kingdom. The children played pranks on her on Holi and chased her away.

In honor of this, you are most welcome to celebrate this auspicious day with us.

 

We have many opportunities for you to become part of our Vedic celebrations.
Join us by helping to sponsor this holiday at the cost that is most fitting for you:
Supporter-$108 (Ashtotram offered in your name)
Benefactor-$251 (Nevidyam offered in your name)
Sponsor-$501 (Mantra Pushpam offered in your name)
Patron-$1,108 (Entire puja offered in your name)