What is Holi?

Holi Rave Festival, Birmingham’s official cultural celebration is also known as the festival of colours Holi, is traditionally celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Phalgun (March) and festivities spread across the globe. The festival signifies the victory of good over evil, the arrival of spring, end of winter, and for many a festive day to meet others, play and laugh, forget and forgive, and repair broken relationships, and is also celebrated as a thanksgiving for a good harvest.

Holi also celebrates Krishna, and the legend of Holika and Prahlad.

Some believe the origin of the festival lies with Krishna who was very mischievous as a young boy and threw coloured water over the gopis (milkmaids) This developed into the practical jokes and games of Holi.

The story of Prahlad is seen to symbolise good overcoming evil and is why traditionally bonfires are lit at Holi.

Prahlad was a prince. His father, the king wanted everyone in his kingdom to worship him. But Prahlad refused and worshipped Lord Vishnu instead. The king’s sister Holika, who was supposed to be immune to fire, tricked her nephew Prahlad into sitting on her lap in a bonfire in order to destroy him. But because she was using her powers for evil, the plan failed and Prahlad emerged from the fire unharmed, while Holika was devoured by the flames.

In some parts of India effigies of Holika are burnt on the fire. Ashes from Holi bonfires are thought to bring good luck.

All in all Holi Rave is a celebration for all multi-cultural community to unite as one to celebrate happiness and joy. We hope you will join us in what will be a fantastic festival for all.