Holi is an ancient Hindu festival which takes place over two days on the last full moon day of the lunar month, usually between late February and March. Also known as the ‘festival of colours’ or the ‘festival of sharing love’, it marks the coming of Spring, and people enjoy bonfires, dancing, singing sharing sweets and throwing a special powder paint known as ‘Holi powder’ or ‘gulal’.
People in the streets of India, Pakistan and Nepal have fun covering one another with paint and throwing coloured water at each other – everyone gets involved, young and old, men, women and children and no-one seems to mind, no matter how messy they get! An important aspect of the festival is that it bridges the gaps between all people, bringing them together, regardless of social class or religion.
The Origin of the Holi Festival
The festival originally gave thanks for good harvest and fertile land, welcoming the arrival of spring and the end of winter. It signifies the victory of good over evil and celebrates many religious myths and legends – the name ‘Holi’ comes from the demoness Holika, a character from Hindu mythology.
Holi has always been an important religious festival for Hindus, but it has also become popular with non-Hindus and, in recent years, has spread to Europe and North America as a playful Spring celebration of love and colour.
Day one of this vibrant festival is called ‘Holika Dahan’ or ‘Chhoti’, and involves lighting a ‘Holika bonfire’, prayer and performing religious rituals. The second day celebrates ‘Rangwali Holi’ with a carnival of colours. The air is filled with dry powder, coloured water, music and laughter. Groups carry drums and other musical instruments and travel from place to place singing and dancing. Groups of friends and families get together to throw Holi colours at one another and share food and drink.
The Ingredients of Holi Powder
Traditionally, Holi colour paint was made using turmeric and sandalwood. Powders were made by grinding dried flowers, which produced brilliant colours when mixed with water.
The Meaning of the Colours
The most popular colours for Holi festival paint powder are bright colours like blue, yellow, red, purple, pink, and green. Colour is very important to Hindus, each one symbolising an energy in life, for example, red signifies fertility, yellow is for healing, green represents new beginnings and saffron is associated with Hinduism, virtue and strength.
UK Use of Holi Powder
Holi Powder UK is used to create a carnival atmosphere at events and parties here in the UK, as well being used to celebrate Holi by Hindu families, students and community groups. Our event colour throwing powder is completely safe and non-toxic, ideal for Holi festivals, colour runs and other sporting and charity events. Holi Powder Bulk is available as 15kg bulk boxes and comes in a range of six vibrant colours. As an approximate guide, we recommend you allow 1 x 15kg box per 20-25 participants.
Create happy memories and amazing experiences - let loose and have fun with event throwing powder! Celebrate life, colour, family and friendship with holi paint.
