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Dhulandi Festival (Festival of Colors) is celebrated all over India a day after Holika Dahan and marks the beginning of spring. On this day, young and old alike play with colours and water, and the celebrations can last for the better part of the day. The festival is celebrated in a very special way in Jaipur, where the Department of Tourism organizes an event meant especially for foreign tourists. The event is held on the lawns of the Khasa Kothi hotel and visitors to the event can have a grand time playing with dry colours while dancing to Rajasthani folk music performed by local artists. Come envelop yourself in the colours of spring! Witness stunning cultural performances by folk artists
THE MANY NAMES OF DHULANDI
Holi in Jaipur and most parts of India is a two-day festival marking the onset of the season of spring. Holiis widely recognized as the Dhulandi festival in Jaipur and neighboring areas of Rajasthan, and is celebrated on the second day, following Holika Dahan. Holika Dahan or the traditional bonfire is observed post-sunset on the first day of Holi, and is known by several names, the most popular among them beingChhoti Holi and Holika Deepak. As per Hindu scriptures, Holika Dahan commences on the evening of Purnima (Pradosh Kaal), after Bhadra, in the month of Phalguna. As the festival of color and gaiety, Holi or Dhulandi brings along a much needed fervor amongst the population, as young or old alike gather around to celebrate it.
THE LEGEND BEHIND IT
The legend associated with Dhulandi is as fascinating as the festival itself.It states the popular story of Prahalada, the famed devotee of Hindu God, Vishnu. Hiranyakashyap (also known as Hiranyakashyapu), king of demons had obtained a boon that bestowed on him five special powers, which made him nearly invincible. His special powers included –
RITUALS
The commemoration of Dhulandi in Jaipur witnesses amazing enthusiasm and grandeur. The locals gather around on Dhulandi smearing bright colors on each other with utmost gusto, painting the Pink City in multiple happy colors as if it were a canvas. As dusk descends, people visit each other’s homes, sharing greetings and joy while indulging in delicacies, thandai (sometimes with Bhang) and light conversations. The Department of Tourism too gets in on the festivities, making special arrangements on the occasion of theDhulandi festival in Jaipur, at the Khasa Kothi Hotel. Tourists from different corners of the world are welcomed to brilliant colors andfascinating folk music and dance. The lively celebrations etch lasting memories in the heart of the visitors. And as they prepare to leave for their homelands, they also take along a part of this influential culture of the city.
THE FESTIVAL’S SIGNIFICANCE
The Dhulandi festival in Jaipur essentially marks the victory of Prahalad over Hiranyakashyap, of good over evil. The end of the mighty demon king had put to rest the fear he had instilled among his subjects and they were once again free to keep faith in their gods. When burning the traditional bonfire, city folks pray for all their evils to be expended in the fire (just like Holika) leaving behind what is good and pure. Besides the religious value, the festival also lends people achance to forget their differences and start on a fresh note by embracing each other. On the whole, Dhulandi or Holi in Jaipuris a memorable experience for anyone who visits the city during this time.
Vikram Samwat Lunar Calendar
Dates
Starting: 28/03/2021
Ending: 29/03/2021
Location
Jaipur, Rajasthan