Millions of people across South Asia celebrated Holi, the vibrant Hindu festival of colors, on Friday, March 14, 2025. Communities thronged public spaces, smearing each other with colored powders, dancing joyfully to lively music, and relishing traditional sweets prepared for this significant occasion. The festival marks the arrival of spring, the end of winter, and symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.
Holi is not just celebrated across India but is also recognized as a two-day event in Nepal, having commenced on Thursday, March 13. The festival draws attendees from various backgrounds, including the Indian diaspora worldwide, uniting people through its jubilant atmosphere and shared cultural heritage.
With its roots deeply ensconced within Hindu mythology, Holi pays homage to the divine love story of the Hindu god Krishna and his consort Radha, signifying rebirth and renewal. Across India, participants, clad mostly in white, engaged exuberantly, throwing colored powders at each other, transforming the surroundings with vibrant hues. Children were seen climbing rooftops and balconies, launching water balloons filled with pigments at unsuspecting passersby.
On the streets, young men took to using water guns to chase after revelers at parks as others danced animatedly, singing and playing music from portable speakers, enveloping the air with cheer and laughter. The kaleidoscope of colors mingling with boisterous laughter epitomized the spirit of the festival.
“It’s time for fun and frolic,” shouted Krisha Bedi, reflecting the sentiments of many as her face was caked with splashes of red, green, and blue. “We come together to forget our differences and celebrate life!”
Meanwhile, the festival was marked by several unique traditions. Instead of colored powders, some participants preferred to hurl marigolds, roses, or jasmine petals, enhancing the sensory experience of Holi. Historically, food and drink play pivotal roles during these celebrations, with vendors across the country selling thandai, a light green beverage infused with milk, cardamom, and dried fruit. Gujia, flaky pastries stuffed with sweetened milk curds and nuts, were also popular treats being enjoyed.
Another traditional beverage associated with Holi is bhang, derived from cannabis and mixed with either milk or water. Revered especially during festivities, this drink is permissible under Indian law and available at licensed outlets, adding to Holi's celebratory spirit.
A customary ritual held just before the main festival involves lighting large bonfires, symbolizing the destruction of evil and the victory of good. Families gather around these flames, honoring the festival's spirit through singing, dancing, and prayers to their deities. The bonfire event, identified as Choti Holi, took place the night preceding the grand festivities.
Adding to the playful atmosphere, some northern towns witnessed the ritual of “Lathmar Hol,” where hundreds of women playfully struck men with wooden sticks, reminding everyone of the charm of community engagement wrapped in joyous festivities.
During these festive moments, leaders and politicians also took the opportunity to extend their greetings. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed hope through social media, indicating, “This festival fills our hearts with joy and will inject new energy and enthusiasm among our people. Let’s come together and share the colors of progress, prosperity, and happiness.”
President Droupadi Murmu echoed similar sentiments, marking Holi as “a symbol of India's rich cultural heritage.”
Enthusiasm and fervor weren’t limited to India alone, as the celebrations extended to numerous South Asian nations including Nepal and Bangladesh, where communities also observed Holi, blending their unique cultural practices with the traditional festivities of colors.
Holi tradition can also be observed outside the South Asia region. Across the world, nations with Indian communities, such as Trinidad and Tobago, embraced the spirit of Holi, celebrating the values of unity and affection.
This cherished festival continues to flourish, underlining the importance of cultural heritage, communal harmony, and the universal message of positivity it advocates. Even as the celebrations wind down this year, the heartwarming memories and colorful remnants of Holi are likely to linger long after.