Hindus celebrate Holi since ancient times. Holi festival is celebrated as a way to welcome spring as well as an opportunity to release all inhibitions and begin fresh. It is a time to open up and let go of cultural norms and to dance and party.
To symbolize the transformation from bad to good, a bonfire is lit on the first day of the festival. A participant throws powder dye into the air, covering all those present with vibrant colors during the Holi Festival. Religiously, colors play a central role with multiple meanings, such as symbolizing a vibrant new life or even sin.
Many believe washing off the dye at the end of the day signifies a new commitment to living a healthy, happy life. Holi was originally a ceremony for newlyweds to introduce their families to prosperity. The festival has since evolved into much more. This festival celebrates good over evil as one of its main objectives.
In Hinduism, the story of Hiranyakashipu illustrates the triumph of good over evil. In his claim to being immortal, he urged his people to worship him as a god. Prahlad, Hiranyakashipu's son, worshipped the Hindu deity Vishnu more than him. Hiranyakashipu was angry at the act of his son.
Hiranyakashipu was killed by Lord Vishnu, who appeared as a half-lion and half-man in the story. By so doing, good overcame evil. Holi is known for its colorful dye, water guns, music, dancing, and wild crowds. The Holi Festival is celebrated by dancing and by throwing colored dye onto each other. When people come together for Holi, they let go of the inhibitions they have held on to.