Holi, a unique celebration in a glory of colours.

Holi, a unique celebration in a glory of colours

Holi, also known as the festival of colours, is a major event celebrated in the Hindu culture all around the world. It takes place every year during the full moon for the month of Phalguna, evolving around the vernal equinox and is, of course, celebrated in Mauritius. In 2018, it will take place on the 1st of March.

In addition to marking the arrival of spring, from a religious point of view, Holi symbolises the victory of the good against evil. It draws its strength and origin from the Hindu mythology.

Hiranyakashipu, the king of the demons had the capacity never to be killed. He did not favour the fact that Prahlad, his son, venerated the God Vishnu. After, having tried on several occasions to kill him, Hiranyakashipu challenged his sister Holika and son Prahlad to conquer the flames. Not fearing fire, Holika sat down on the pyre with her nephew on her knees. Prahlad then started praying Vishnu and to the contrary of his aunt, he survived.

One week before Holi, the merchant’s stalls blooms with powders of coloured pigments, called Gulal. Each colour has its meaning:

On the rhythm of the songs, drums and laughter, the Hindu community is generally joined by people of different religious beliefs and curious tourists. In a joyful cacophony, the fun begins, it is when water and coloured powders start to be thrown at each other, followed by this common apology: ‘Bura na mano, Holî hai’ which literally means: ‘Do not be annoyed, its Holi.’ Thus covered up like a rainbow from the head to the toes, the believers celebrate the arrival of spring. Generally the day ends around a good family meal.

Holi is an authentic, warm and friendly celebration which you can enjoy along with your friends or family. On this colourful occasion, Marguery Exclusive Villas holds a special offer just for you! Do not forget to bring along clothes, which won’t matter to you if they get ruined.  😉

Illustration : Freepik