Holi in North :
Holi, a festival originated in the North is celebrated with all pomp and gaiety in Bengal
and neighbouring states. Gulal, Dholaks, bhang, Dandia and garlands of sugar candies all
mark the celebrations of Holi with the prime importance always resting on the newly wed
couples. This is exceptionally true with the newly married daughters who indulge in
playing pranks and are often gifted with precious clothes called "Dandia"
by the in-laws.
 Towards the evening huge bonfires are lit up on
street corners at the crossroads with the entire community gathering near the fire to fill
the air with folk strains and dances. Bhang served add a special
fervour to the entire celebration.
Unlike all these gay and frenzied
celebrations, Bengal observes this festival in a quiet and dignified
manner as Dolapurnima or Dolayatra (the festival of the
swing), said to have been initiated by the king Indradyumna in Brindavan. Starting from
the sukla Chaturdasi of Phalguna it is spread over 3 or 5 days. A celebration in honour of
Agni and worship of Govinda (Krishna) on a swing are the important features. The fire
kindled on the first day is preserved till the last day and the swing is rocked 21 times
at the end of the festival.
The day is also celebrated as the birthday of Sri
Krishna Chaitanya (A.D. 1486-1533), mostly in Bengal, as also in Puri (Orissa),
Mathura and Brindavan(in Uttar Pradesh). |
