Holi

In Hindu tradition, a spring festival and one of the most joyful for Hindus. Held February/March, it lasts for up to five days from the full moon. Holi celebrates the death of the evil princess Holika, who planned to kill her nephew in a bonfire but was consumed by the flames herself. It also celebrates the pranks that Krishna played on the milkmaids where he lived, throwing coloured water and powder over them for a joke. During the festival, normal rules are abandoned and castes can mix.

Bonfires are often lit, and children may be carried round them, or young men leap over them. People throw coloured powder and water at each other in memory of Krishna, children are allowed to behave boisterously, and everyone is encouraged to enjoy themselves.