Holi gives us the message of friendship and goodwill. On this occasion we forget our old quarrels with people and mix with one another freely. At least for a day we forget social distinctions completely. On Holi, there is no difference between the rich and the poor. Holi gives us great joy. It is a happy occasion when we forget our cares and anxieties. But Holi has got some evils too. Many people get drunk on this occasion. They indulge in rowdy behaviour and apply colours that are dangerous for health. Some people sing indecent songs and abuse women too. We should celebrate Holi in a decent way. We must realize that it is a festival of joy and friendship. We should share our joys with others. We must not behave in an indecent manner. The real spirit of the festival should be maintained.
Holi is an ancient Hindu religious festival which has become popular with a lot of non-Hindus too. Holi celebrations begin with the lighting of a bonfire the previous night. Numerous legends and stories are associated with the festival which makes it more exuberant and vivid. People put 'gulal' and 'abeer' on each other’s faces and cheer up saying, "bura na maano Holi hai".
People who want to celebrate Holi in the real spirit of colours should be confined to certain areas along with the willing partners so that others are not offended or subjected to inconvenience. The way the unsuspecting passersby are discoloured with toxic dyes renders it as an unholy affair. Let’s have a holy Holi.
Jubel D’Cruz,
Mumbai, India
