Holi 2024: People in THIS District of Bihar Play Holi with Ashes Instead of Gulal, Know Reason

Holi 2024: There are several different beliefs surrounding Holika Dahan, which is performed the day before Holi. It is stated that Holika Dahan is completed on this day to celebrate the victory of truth over deception and goodness over evil. Although this unique day is observed differently over the world, do you know where Holika Dahan first appeared? If not, let us tell you where Holika was reduced to ashes and Prahlad's life was spared.

Origin of Holika Dahan

Even though many tales are narrated about various locations, they all began in a Bihar district. Although it is thought that Holi originated in Erich, Bundelkhand, it is also reported to have originated in Hardoi, but this Bihar tale is highly well-known.

According to stories, Holika Dahan got its beginnings in the Purnia district of Bihar's Sikligarh Dharhara of Banmankhi. Here, ashes are allegedly used to play Holi. Sitting in front of the fire, Holika held her nephew Prahlad in her lap. Holika was indeed endowed with a miraculous sheet and the blessing that even her hair would not burn when she sat in the fire. Just when Holika and Prahlad were sitting in the fire, a storm broke out, sending the sheet flying and hugging Prahlad, killing Holika from burns.

Symbolism of Ashes in Holi Celebrations

Using the ashes left behind from burning Holika, the locals played their first game of Holi. Since then, ashes have been used instead of Gulal to perform Holi on Holika Dahan. When Holika was set on fire, everyone present was ecstatic. From this place, Holika Dahan originated, and people continue to commemorate it today.

Prahlad, the son of Hiranyakashyap, was a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu, and Hiranyakashyap saw Lord Vishnu as his adversary. He addressed himself as God. Upon Prahlad's persistent refusals to relinquish his love, Hiranyakashyap asked his sister Holika to act on behalf of Prahlad. Prahlad and Holika were sitting in the fire together, but because of God's delusion, Prahlad survived while Holika was reduced to ashes.