March
Holi
The festival of colours
The Joyous Awakening of Spring
Holi marks the farewell of winter and welcomes the vibrant rebirth of nature with spring (Vasant Ritu). Celebrated on the full moon day (Phalguna Purnima), the festivities begin on the eve of Holi with Holika Dahan, where huge community bonfires are lit to commemorate the miraculous deliverance of the devout child Prahlad and the destruction of the demoness Holika.
The following morning, Rangwali Holi, streets erupt into an open-air carnival of laughter, drumming, and vibrant natural pigments. Class, age, and social barriers dissolve in clouds of gulal, while glasses of chilled thandai scented with saffron and cardamom flow freely. From the playful stick battles of Braj to the soulful poetic rhythms of Bengal and the daring martial demonstrations of Punjab, Holi reminds us that life is richest when lived in full colour.
How it is celebrated across India
Explore the distinct customs and mythological roots across 4 diverse regions:
Lathmar Holi
A legendary, high-energy reenactment of Krishna visiting Radha's village. Women playfully wield bamboo lathis while men defend themselves with leather shields, enveloped in swirls of fragrant crimson and turmeric powders.
Dol Jatra / Basanta Utsav
Pioneered in modern times by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore at Visva-Bharati, Shantiniketan. Celebrated with yellow spring attire, Tagore's soulful seasonal songs, graceful classical dances, and the gentle touch of dry abir.
Hola Mohalla
Established by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, this martial festival features awe-inspiring displays of equestrian horsemanship, Gatka swordsmanship, tent-pegging, and mock battles performed by the fearless Nihang warrior Sikhs.
Kaman Pandigai
Rooted in the mythology of Kamadeva being revived after being turned to ash by Shiva's third eye. Folk singers perform poignant ballads (Lavani) depicting the sacrifice and renewal of love, harmony, and cosmic vitality.
Festival Painted Wallpaper
Gulal Celestial Symphony
Download this bespoke fine art wallpaper celebrating Holi. Rendered in exquisite Indian fine-art aesthetics, ready for your desktop, tablet, or 4K display.