Holi Ka Dahan: Igniting the Flames of Tradition and Unity, Burning Away Negativity...
The night had set in and the moon shone brightly in the clouded sky. A mild breeze was blowing as I stepped out to take a stroll. Whiffs of air brought a fragrance of flowers from a nearby garden. On my way home I stopped at a nearby temple of Lord Ganesh.
Usually the temple was quiet except for occasions like Chathurthis but today I could see a big crowd. As I looked around, I found that preparations for 'Holika Dahan' were in progress.
I stayed back after my circumambulations to the Vignaharta, Ganesha. I didn't want to lose this opportunity of participating in a traditional celebration of Holika Dahan which I was going to see after many years. The last I remember watching Holika Dahan was probably when my son was seven or eight years of age.
As I waited for the dahan, I thought about our childhood and the Holi celebrations at our home in the Railway Colony at Bhusawal.
Among a multitude of festivals in India, Holi stands out not only because it is a vibrant celebration of colours, joy and camaraderie but also due to the fact that prior to splashes of colours, there's a more profound ritual—the sacred bonfire or 'Holi Ka Dahan'.
This age-old tradition, steeped in symbolism serves as a philosophical prelude to the colorful festivities of Holi.
It is not just a celebratory act but signifies the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and positivity over negativity.
Prahlad, a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu was hated by his own father Hiranyakashipu, a non-believer more so because he had challenged the tyranny of his father. He therefore made several attempts to kill his son. Once he along with Prahalad's aunt, Holika who had been gifted with a boon of immunity to fire hatched a conspiracy to burn him by tying him to his aunt and burning them on a pyre.
Prahlad's belief in Lord Vishnu left him unscathed while burning away Holika despite her boon of immunity. This legendary story symbolizes the fact that positivity in the heart and mind is shielded by God with his loving touch and can never be burnt as ultimately it is the good which triumphs over evil.
Secondly, the bonfire represents the burning of the impurities in our minds and body by burning away negative thoughts and energies, ignorance and ego paving the way for self- enlightenment.
Holi Ka Dahan also gives us lessons in connecting communities as people gather around the bonfire, pray, sing and dance, reinforcing social bonds, spreading joy, fostering unity and harmony
The Fire too symbolizes enlightenment of devotees who light the bonfire and welcome light and warmth into their lives.
Amidst the crackling flames of Holi Ka Dahan I found myself introspecting on the significance of this festival where one can confront their inner fears, and prejudices, and embrace the light of self-awareness and transform oneself by shedding negativity.
It was an apt reminder for people to rekindle the flames of compassion, forgiveness, and understanding. For in the glow of Holi Ka Dahan, one would not only find the promise of a new beginning but also the timeless wisdom of unity, resilience, and hope.
It was learning for me too as I felt the energetic fervour of the holi pyre as it went up in flames. Each circumambulation around the pyre was a step towards discarding of all unwanted burden in my heart and welcoming all colours of life this Holi. Wishing you all a warm, colourful and Happy Holi...
