Explore the vibrant tapestry of History of Holi as you delve into the ancient roots of this joyous festival. Uncover the fascinating journey of Holi, originally known as ‘Holika,’ through the pages of time, drawing insights from religious texts, historical accounts, and cultural expressions.
History of Holi
Centuries before Christ, Holi graced the lives of all Aryans, particularly flourishing in the Eastern part of India. Jaimini’s Purvamimamsa-Sutras and Kathaka-Grhya-Sutras provide intricate details about this ancient festival, shedding light on its significance. Initially, Holi wasn’t the exuberant festival of colors we know today; rather, it was a solemn rite performed by married women to ensure the happiness and well-being of their families. The full moon, or Raka, held a sacred place in these early celebrations.
Understanding the calculation of Holi’s day adds another layer to its historical tapestry. The lunar month can be reckoned in two ways – ‘purnimanta’ and ‘amanta.’ In the former, the month begins after the full moon, while in the latter, it starts after the new moon. The shift from purnimanta to amanta reckoning marked a transformation in Holi’s nature. Phalguna purnima, under the purnimanta reckoning, signaled the end of the year and the beginning of Vasanta-ritu, ushering in the spring season. Holi, once a solemn affair, gradually evolved into a jubilant festival heralding the arrival of spring, known by other names such as Vasanta-Mahotsava and Kama-Mahotsava.
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The historical references to Holi extend beyond religious texts. Stone inscriptions from 300 BC found at Ramgarh in the Vindhya province mention Holikotsav. King Harsha, in his work Ratnavali from the 7th century, and the renowned Muslim tourist Ulbaruni also document the celebration of holikotsav. It’s fascinating to note that Holi wasn’t confined to the Hindu community; Muslim writers of that period attest to its celebration by both Hindus and Muslims.
The visual representation of Holi in ancient paintings and murals adds a colorful dimension to its history. Sculptures on the walls of old temples, such as the 16th-century panel in Hampi, depict joyous scenes of Holi celebrations. Royal couples, adorned in vibrant hues, stand amidst maids wielding syringes filled with colored water. The paintings offer a visual feast, capturing the essence of Holi in different historical periods.
Legends and mythology intertwine with Holi, giving it a deeper meaning. In Bengal and Orissa, Holi Purnima doubles as the birthday celebration of Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. However, the term ‘Holi’ itself carries a different connotation – ‘burning.’ One prevalent legend revolves around the demon king Hiranyakashyap, who sought worship for himself but faced defiance from his son Prahlad. Holika, with her supposed immunity to fire, attempted to burn Prahlad but paid the price for her sinister intentions. Holi, therefore, symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the power of devotion.
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Another captivating legend involves Lord Krishna, who initiated the tradition of playing with colors by applying them to his beloved Radha and other gopis. This playful tradition gained popularity over time, becoming an integral part of Holi celebrations.
The festival is also associated with other legends, such as the stories of Shiva and Kaamadeva, as well as Ogress Dhundhi and Pootana, all conveying the theme of triumphing over evil.
Conclusion
As you absorb the historical tapestry of Holi, you’ll discover its evolution from a solemn ritual to a jubilant celebration, spanning centuries and uniting communities in the spirit of joy, color, and shared mythology. Embrace the vibrant history of Holi, where each splash of color echoes the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of the enchanting spring season.
