Resonance with Divinity: The Festivals of Colours, A Timeless Reminder of Being Stewards of Life.

By Anupama Vaidya.      

As March unfolds its warmth and the sun asserts its presence, my excitement for the vibrant festivities of Holi intensifies. Memories from childhood flood my mind, transporting me back to the exhilarating moments immersed in colours and laughter. Those were the days when the day of Holi meant plunging into the playful chaos, drenching ourselves in vibrant hues repeatedly, and revelling in the joyful celebrations.

With years gone by, the essence of this tradition has evolved into something deeper - it's now about finding joy in witnessing the happiness of others. Despite the passage of time, Holi remains a cherished day for us, holding a special place in my heart, now more associated with relishing the puran polis (so  intricately prepared in oil – tel poli as we as we affectionately call it, with its heavenly taste); an integral part of our family's heritage.

Amidst the blossoming of spring, a transition from the sluggish grasp of the cold winters to the impending heat of summer, Holi emerges as a vibrant celebration on life’s canvas.

A timeless ritual of energy and vitality.

Combatting the cold wintery sluggishness of transitioning seasons, vibrant songs, lively instruments, and spirited music fill the air, igniting a fervour for rejuvenation. Engaging in physical exuberance of colourful revelry invigorates both body and spirit.

Pause & Reflect: Am I striving to invigorate my soul and awaken bliss amidst the splash of colours?

A timeless ritual of purification and rejuvenation.

Shifting seasons induce the growth of bacteria. The ceremonial lighting of the bonfire (Holika pyre) elevates temperatures to remarkable levels, often reaching 50-60 degrees Celsius in the vicinity. This fiery spectacle not only serves as a fun event but serves a deeper purpose. Steeped in tradition, the practice of parikrama – encircling the bonfire – harnesses the intense heat to cleanse both the environment and the body, countering the bacterial growth induced by the changing season.

Pause & Reflect: Am I striving for wellness and vitality amidst transitions of nature?

Beyond colors and bonfire, Holi brings in a profound acknowledgement of the intricate relationship between humanity and natural world; our inner and outer selves; our interconnectedness and the cycle of life.

A timeless reminder of renewal and abundance.

Celebrating the earth’s fertility and rejoicing the promise of abundant & bountiful crops. Communities rejoice in the arrival of spring, heralding a season of growth and prosperity. Seeds of hope are sown and the blessings of fruitful harvest awaited. As fields burst into bloom, orchards teemed with life. Every splash of colour and every joyful dance, a testament to the cyclical rhythms of the natural world and the eternal cycle of birth, growth, and renewal.

Pause & Reflect: Am I striving to cultivate a harmony with my environment that sustains us all?

A timeless ritual of igniting a sense of awe and wonder.

Witnessing the essence of renewal and vitality, nature awakens from its winter slumber, vibrant flowers and tender leaves burst forth in a kaleidoscope of colours, symbolizing the rejuvenation of life itself. In this season of growth and transformation, reminding us that challenges are temporary and that brighter days lie ahead. Hearts are stirred to acknowledge the changes, express affection and appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us. It's a time when the gentle breeze carries the sweet scent of blossoms, inspiring tender gestures and heartfelt sentiments.

Pause & Reflect: Am I striving to embrace the boundless magic around us and revere the cycle of life?

A Timeless ritual of embracing virtues & resilience.

Reminiscing on the rich tapestry of legends and folklores that grace the festival of Holi, a profound message echoes through the time: the triumph of righteousness over wrongdoing with lessons in resilience and perseverance. This celebration, steeped in tradition and mythology, serves as a poignant reminder of enduring power of values-driven living.  As we delve into the narratives of Holika’s downfall in the flames or the legend of Lord Krishna vanquishing the demoness Putana, these tales symbolise the eternal battle between light and darkness, virtue and vice, hope over despair.  These tales are not mere stories; they are timeless reflection of the indomitable spirit of goodness and the resilience it inspires within us. In face of adversity, these narratives urge us to confront the challenges in our own lives with courage and conviction, knowing that ultimately, goodness will always prevail.

Pause & Reflect: Am I striving for a brighter, and more virtuous world?

A timeless ritual of forgiveness and tolerance.

Breaking down barriers, fortifying connections and expressing affection – these are cornerstones of the vibrant tapestry of the celebrations. As the carnival unfolds, it becomes a powerful symbol of releasing the burdens of the past, with forgiveness at its core and embracing a fresh start. Standing as a profound metaphor for shedding inhibitions, prejudices and grudges that may have accumulated over time, it encourages us to let go of resentments and grievances, allowing the warmth of forgiveness to permeate our hearts. In doing so we pave way for reconciliation and renewal, fostering deeper connections with those around us.

Pause & Reflect: Am I striving to heal and reconcile as I embrace compassion?

A timeless ritual fostering togetherness and enrichment.

Expressing love and strengthening bonds, the infectious energy and joyful ambience creates the perfect backdrop for heartfelt connections. Amidst the playful banter, shared laughter and heartfelt gestures, relations are reaffirmed and the inherent goodness in individual is celebrated. It’s a beauty to behold, as love is expressed openly and freely, transcending differences and fostering a deep sense of connection. This unifying force transcends boundaries, uniting people in a shared journey of love, joy and growth together. 

Pause & Reflect: Am I striving to spread love and affection in every facet in my life and that I touch in life?

As the festivities unfold, they present us with a precious opportunity to express ourselves with unabashed joy and spontaneity. Amidst the chaos of life, the festival reminds us to pause, indulge in playfulness, infuse the vibrant colours into our lives and revel in the pleasures of existence. It calls open our hearts to the harmony of hues and the rhythm of life, urging us to immerse ourselves in its exuberance and profound significance.

As I celebrate this year’s festivities, I feel the same intensity and energy in the air, that has permeated the air for generations; an urge to dip my brushes in the wells of Joy, Love, Peace and Happiness with each stroke creating a masterpiece of celebration and unity. In doing so, adding to the rich tapestry of Holi’s significance in our lives, adding another later of beauty to its timless legacy. Wishing you a Happy Holi!