Holi 2024: While the nation is busy getting ready for the Holi holiday, burning Holika is a tradition that comes before Holi. Prahlad, the devotee, was spared by kindness while evil, in the shape of Holika, was incinerated. Burning Holi is a custom that dates back to that day. Holi is a celebration observed to honour the survival of the devotee Prahlad.
Holika Dahan in Hardoi
This celebration is meant to symbolise the triumph of truth over deception and goodness over evil. However, did you know that Holika Dahan and Hiranyakashyap have a close relationship with the Hardoi district of Uttar Pradesh? Let us tell you, the narrative around this is also pretty well-known.
Regarding Holika Dahan and the origin of Holi, there are numerous schools of thought. It is supposed to have originated in the Purnia district of Bihar; the Hardoi district of Uttar Pradesh is also on this list. Because Hiranyakashyap was the king of the Hardoi district in Uttar Pradesh, it is said that Holika Dahan originated there.
Because he was a follower of Lord Vishnu, Hiranyakashyap used to commit numerous crimes against Prahlad despite being the father. Enraged by his son’s love, Hiranyakashyap asked his sister Holika for assistance in killing him.
Historical Significance of Hardoi
Holika and her nephew Prahlad sat in the fire as per King Hiranyakashipu’s advice. She was then reduced to ashes by the flames. This pond is supposedly still located in Hardoi. Hardoi’s given name, Hari Drohi, translates to “enemy of God.” The people there joyfully celebrated Holi after Holika passed away, and this festival is observed with tremendous fanfare here.
Numerous similar mounds in this area attest to the fact that this was King Hiranyakashyap’s city. This location has historical significance of its own. After kindly urging his son Prahlad to give up his devotion to Lord Vishnu, Hiranyakashyap turned the tables on him. Hiranyakashyap planned to assassinate Prahlad because of his stubbornness. Prahlad was spared, though, because of God’s wish.
