Holi is a popular Hindu holiday celebrated most commonly in India. Holi got its name as the "Festival of Colors" from the childhood antics of Lord Krishna, a reincarnation of Lord Vishnu, who liked to play pranks on the village girls by drenching them in water and colors. It celebrates the triumph of good over evil and the changing of the seasons from winter to spring.
On the eve of the festival, large pyres are lit in many parts of India to signify the burning of evil spirits. People often throw wood, dried leaves and twigs into bonfires. On the day of Holi, entire streets and towns turn red, green and yellow as people throw colored powder into the air and splash them on others. The powdered paint (called “gulal”) thrown during the festival pay homage to the bright colors seen during the spring season. Bhang, a paste made from cannabis plants, is traditionally consumed as part of celebrations. Special Holi events with music, rain dances, and colors are organized in large cities across India, particularly in Delhi and Mumbai.
