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Kathmanduites paint the town red in festival of colours

The festival of Holi is widely being celebrated at different parts of the country today. The festival will be observed a day later in the Terai.

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The festival of colours marks the beginning of spring season and is celebrated on the full moon day which falls on the month of Falgun. Revelers smear dry colour and splash coloured water to each other to celebrate the oncoming of spring.

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Hindu mythology has a different story on the origin of Holi though. It is said to be observed to mark the death of king Hiranyakashipu’s evil sister Holika who took Prahlad, the king’s son, to a raging fire. Holika was killed but young Prahlad survived. The following day, the king’s people celebrated by smearing the ash on their forehead.

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In Kathmandu, a traditional pole is erected infront of Basantapur Durbar to mark the beginning of the festival. The pole is then burnt later at night to end the festival.

 

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Different colours used in the festival hold their own significance. The colour blue signifies the war over evil while yellow is said to be the favourite colour of Lord Krishna. The colour red, which is widely used, is said to be the symbol of strength and goodwill.

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Over the years, the festival has evolved, but its cultural significance remains the same. For farmers, the festival marks the beginning of a new harvest season. For others, it starts a new beginning to start afresh.

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The festivals begins with colours and ends with the symbolic pyre to burn all evil and start new. It is said that enemies become friends on this day.

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Britain’s prince Harry also took time off for Holi celebration at a local school in Lamjung’s Gauda village before returning to Pokhara early this morning.

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Cover image for representational purpose. (Wikicommons)

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