Holi (referred to as Phagwa in Bhojpuri), also called the Festival of Colours, is a popular Hindu spring festival observed in India, Suriname, Guyana, Trinidad, the UK and Nepal.
In West Bengal, it is known as Dolyatra (Doljatra) or Boshonto Utsav (“spring festival”). On the third day, burning of the demoness Holika, Hiranyakashipu’s sister, in huge bonfires at night.
It is called Kama dahanam in Andhra Pradesh. On the second day, known as Dhulheti, people spend the day throwing coloured powder and water at each other. The spring season, during which the weather changes, is believed to cause viral fever and cold. Thus, the playful throwing of the coloured powders has a medicinal significance: the colours are traditionally made of Neem, Kumkum, Haldi, Bilva, and other medicinal herbs prescribed by Āyurvedic doctors.
A special drink called thandai is prepared, sometimes containing bhang (Cannabis sativa). Rangapanchami occurs a few days later on a Panchami (fifth day of the full moon), marking the end of festivities involving colours.
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Comment by shokcl — February 24, 2011 @ 10:09 am