Kathmandu, March 1, 2018: Holi is one of the greatest festivals in Nepal. According to Nepali calendar, Holi is celebrated as FaguPurnima in the Falgun Suklapakchya Purnima. The word ‘Fagu’ means ‘Red Color’ whereas ‘Purnima’ means ‘Full Moon Day’. In FaguPurnima, people spread colors on one another and spend a joyous time.
The occasion is celebrated by reminiscing the win over the devil by God. The story of Holi revolves around the demon Hiranyakashipu and his son Prahlad. Hiranyakashipu who is an arrogant demon king detests the fact that his son Prahlad is a devotee of Lord Vishnu. Agitated by Prahlad’s devotion, Hiranyakashipu plans to kill his son. Hiranyakashipu calls out to his sister, Holika to kill Prahlad. Holika, the demon gifted with Lord Bramha’s cocoon, fails to kill Prahlad and the death of Holika is said to be the main reason why we celebrate Holi.
Nowadays people are celebrating Holi in an unethical manner. Instead of using proper colors people are using grease and other chemicals. Similarly, in name of Holi, many people also try to drag individuals who are not interested to celebrate the festival.
Taking into consideration about this problem, the government has made strict rules and appealed people to halt their irrelevant activities in Holi. In addition, the government has also campaigned awareness program focusing ethical ways to celebrate Holi.
