Revellers paint the town in rainbow hues

Holi celebrations

Many began the day by going to the temple and performing puja before the ritual fire. People put in water, dates and corn in the fire and circle it to symbolise burning of all negativity in one’s life and home.

After the puja, people get into the serious business of having fun. Priya N, a student of St Xavier’s, says “All my cousins first gathered at my house where everyone exchanged sweets. Soon, people start smearing gulaal all over everyone”. People were found hurling coloured powder varying from green, magenta, red, yellow and purple all over the City.

While the streets were bustling with people smearing colours on their friends and family, several foreigners were also seen with their clothes daubed in so many hues.

However, for many students, the festival turned out to be a tame affair as they had to prepare for their final examinations.

Sahil K, who is appearing for II PU exam on Monday, said it was “very difficult” to concentrate on studies when all his relatives were celebrating.

“I’ll make up for it next year”, he adds. The festival heralds the coming of spring and also marks the legend of triumph of good over evil. The festival was born out of the legend of Prahlad, whose devotion to Lord Vishnu angered his father the demon king Hiranyakashipu. In the end, Prahlad survives while the king perishes.

Holi is celebrated with much fervour not just in Bangalore but across Karnataka. Rural Karnataka has a tradition wherein children collect money and wood, and light them on ‘Kamadahana’ night. The festival in these places is celebrated over two days.