History of Holi

History of Holi is very old and many mythological stories and legends are associated with Holi. Although it is an ancient festival the meaning of Holi has changed over the years. Detailed description of the history of Holi can be found in some of the religious work like Kathaka-Grhya-Sutras and Jamini's Purvamimamsa-Sutras. In ancient times Holi was known as 'Holika'. The reference of ancient Holi can be found in the paintings and sculptures of medieval India.

One of the most famous and well known legends associated with Holi is King Hiranyakashyap and the story associated with the King reveals the origin of celebrating Holi. The story states that mighty King Hiranyakashyap wanted everyone to worship him like God but his son Prahlad a devotee of Lord Vishnu disobeyed him and eventually he decided to kill his son. Hiranyakashyap took the help of his sister Holika to kill his son and asked her sister who was immune to fire to sit on a blazing fire with prahalad on her lap. By God's grace Prahlad was unhurt but Holika died. The story teaches us the lesson of victory of good over evil and to celebrate this day people light bonfires and play with colors and water. Various other legends are also associated with the history of Holi like Ogress Dhundhi and Pootana and legend of Shiva and Kaamadeva.

It is said that Lord Krishna made the tradition of Holi popular. Many temples of ancient and medieval India depict the Lord Krishna celebrating Holi. The tradition of Holi became so popular that it turned into a community festival. The history of Holi has been told in many of the Holi songs and on the day of Holi people sing the songs of Holi. Holi is a festival of colors and the day spreads the message of love and truth. Browse through the pages of Celebrationsonnet for more information and facts on Holi.