Holi is one of the most popular festivals in India. It marks the beginning of spring, and it is observed by all Hindus, regardless of caste, creed, or sex.
There are many traditions associated with Holi. In some parts of India, the celebration is dedicated to Kama, the God of Pleasure. In other parts, Holi is associated with the legends of Shiva and Kaamadeva or Ogress Dhundhi and Pootana. For still others, Holi is dedicated to Krishna, who began the tradition of play with colors by putting colors on his beloved Radha and other gopis. A commonality between all the traditions is the triumph of good over evil.
This commonality is also evident in the main tradition of Holi: the commemoration of the burning of Holika, an evil sorceress who used to torment all of India.
Holika was the sister of Hiranyakasipu, an evil king who ordered everyone to worship him. When Prahlada, Hiranyakasipu’s son, became a devotee of Lord Naarayana instead, Hiranyakasipu was greatly disappointed. He ordered his sister Holika to kill Prahlada by entering a blazing fire while holding Prahlada. 
Holika thought that she would be immune to the blaze because of a boon she held whereby fire could not hurt her. The boon only worked if she was alone, however, so she burned to death. Meanwhile, Prahlada was saved by Lord Naarayana because of Prahlada’s devotion. Thus, good triumphed over evil!
Holi Customs
Holi is marked by freedom, the loosening of inhibitions, and color. Popular names for Holi are “The Festival of Colours” and “The Festival of Sharing Love.”
For many, celebrations last two days. On the first night, a bonfire is constructed, ceremonies are held with offerings of water and grain, and then the bonfire is lit. For the rest of the evening, images of Holika are burned and people rub colored power onto each other’s faces. Much noise is made as people shout and play instruments like drums and horns.
On the second day of Holi, people throw perfumed/ colored water and colored powder in celebration. There are often exuberant processions where people interact by splashing each other with the colored power and water. Many songs are sung, floral decorations made, and sweets are exchanged.
People visit family, friends, and even strangers. They wish each other “Happy Holi!” Old barriers and hurts are pushed away as people renew their friendships and embrace. Drinks are liberally consumed and new corn is baked and eaten, the first of the season. The festival is marked by feelings of release and joy!
Holi is celebrated on the fourteenth day of the waxing half of Phalguna. This year, celebrations will begin the evening of March 23, 2016 and go through March 24, 2016.
—by Melissa Coles, MDiv candidate