India's Holi Festival: Tips for Happy Holi Days
Among India's many festivals, Holi ranks as its most colourful and joyous. In 2024, Holi will take place on March 25.
What is the Holi festival?
Holi is the most significant festival in Hinduism, celebrating the victory of good over evil and connected with devotional love of Lord Krishna and Radha.
Typified by applying coloured powders called gulal, and good-natured water balloon and water pistol fights, be assured that Holi will get a little messy.
Does Holi take place on the same date each year?
The date of Holi varies from year to year, based on the full moon day of Phalguna, a month in the Hindu calendar. This normally corresponds to late February or early March in the Gregorian calendar, but this year lands on the 25th of March.
India is an especially welcoming place for foreigners at any time of the year, but especially so during Holi. Non-Indians (and non-Hindus) can join in all the fun and festivities.
Where's best to celebrate Holi?
The northern Indian cities of Mathura and Vrindavan (Uttar Pradesh) are the twin epicentres of celebration, and are both associated with Lord Krishna. The fun goes on for days, with colourful processions, temple events, and ongoing street celebrations.
Many other dazzling Holi events take place in Northern India, including in Jaipur and Udaipur in Rajasthan - both popular destinations among international visitors year-round. Expect dance, music, traditional rituals, cultural performances - and lots of colour.
Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh - one of the world's oldest cities - is another hotspot for Holi. Located by the majestic Ganges River, it's one of the most remarkable city locales at any time, but especially so during Holi.
It's not all about Northern India, however, with vast Holi celebrations taking place in Pondicherry, the former French colony. These are especially popular among backpackers and other international travellers.
Hampi, in Karnataka, central India, also celebrates Holi, against the backdrop of the town's incredible architectural ruins - notably Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, and Lotus Mahal.
There are also ticketed events in cities like Delhi - which can add an extra layer of security.
Top tips for enjoying Holi in 2024
Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved garments - and be ready to throw them away afterwards, since the coloured powders and liquids used in the celebrations are sure to stain!
Apply coconut oil, moisturiser, or sunblock liberally to exposed areas of skin - so you can wash the colours off more easily afterwards.
Rub coconut or olive oil into your hair to protect it from the powders. Some powders might cause irritation or rashes.
Consider wearing goggles or sunglasses to protect your eyes from the coloured powders. Most powders are safe - made with corn starch and food colouring - but some might contain unwanted chemicals. In any case, corn starch in the eye is not desirable. If you do get a dash of powder in your eyes, don't rub them.
Take care when playing around water - there are many slips and falls during Holi. Consider taking a small first aid kit with you. For peace of mind, ensure you have a good travel insurance policy with ample medical coverage.
Drink plenty of water - the heat and activity means constant hydration is important.
Consider using eco-friendly, organic powders to help protect yourself and those around you.
While the street parties can be frantic, it's important to respect the boundaries of others - and get consent before playing colours to people's faces. Equally, be aware that a minority of locals may use Holi as an excuse to make inappropriate physical contact. If you're female, keep away from groups of young males - something to consider at all times of the year. Thankfully, most Indians you meet will be kind and respectful.
Happy Holi days!
India's Holi should be experienced by everyone at least once. With these safety tips in mind, you're sure to create some unforgettable memories on your Indian adventure.
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