Holi is a festival of colours . Celebrated during the month of March, it is celebrated round the country with extreme joy and vigor. Like all other festivals of India, it is also associated with a legend.

The story dates back to the time when the powerful demon king Hiranyakashyap, after months of worship, got the blessing from Lord Brahma that no man, god, animal would be able to kill him on the earth or sky; neither during day or night; nor inside or outside any place and nor with any weapon or hand. Having attained such supernatural power, Hiranyakashyap began inflicting sufferings on others. People were terrified and they ran to Lord Vishnu for help.

Meanwhile, Hiranyakashyap's younger wife Kayadhu gave birth to his son Prahlad who became an ardent Vishnu devotee. Hiranyakashyap was enraged by his sons activities for he considered Vishnu his cut-throat enemy. Thus, in order to kill Prahlad he took help of his sister Holika. Holika had a magical piece of cloth which protected the person wearing it from fire.

Holika forcefully abducted Prahlad and tying the cloth on her head she walked into the fire along with Prahlad. But suddenly a strong wind blew and the cloth flew from Holika's head and fell upon Prahlad's . Holika died and Prahlad was saved. Thus, on the Holi night, Hindus commemorate this event as Holika Dahan and light bonfire in various places.

People sprinkle coloured water on each other. They visit each others houses and embrace each other to wish 'Happy holi'. Special Holi songs based mostly on the legendary Brij Holi between Lord Krishna and Radha are sung. A special sweet dish known as the 'Gujia' is also quite popular during this occasion. Holi is a festival of unity , love and brotherhood. People from all caste, creed and class intermingle with each other and celebrate this joyous festival together.

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