Is the most boisterous of all Hindu festivalslight huge bonfires to burn the residual dried leaves and twigs of the winter.

People throw coloured water and powders (gulal and kumkum) at each other and make merry. Singing and dancing add to the gaiety of the occasion. In the northern, western as well as eastern regions, Holi celebrates the joyful raasleela of Krishna and the gopis.

They play phag which is a game of many colourful hues. It is a joyous celebration of the rejuvenation of nature, and renewed hope of happiness and peaceful coexistence. Especially famous is the Lathmaar Holi of Barsana and Nandgaon.

In Anandpur Sahib, Sikhas celebrate a special festival Hola Mohalla on the day after Holi . It marks a display of ancient martial arts and mock battles. Holi is also an occasion for the celebration of the burning of Kama, the Hindu cupid, with the fire that emanated from Lord Shiva's third eye.

Rango ke tyohar mein sabhi rango ki ho bharmar,

Dher saari khushiyon se bhara ho aapka sansar,

Yahi dua hai bhagwan se hamari har bar,

Holi Mubarak ho mere yaar

There are a number of popular legends related to the auspicious festival of Mahashivaratri. These legends of Shivaratri explain the popular custom of staying awake all night on Shivaratri while chanting the name of Lord Shiva. Besides, these also throw light on the greatness of Lord Shiva and his supremacy over all other Hindu Gods and Goddesses. An attempt has been made to provide detailed description of these fascinating legends related to Lord Shiva. Please click on the links below to find out more about the origin and history of Mahashivaratri Festival !