MAHA - SHIVARATRI - 23RD FEBRUARY 2009

Lord Shiva




Shiva: (pronunciation: [ʃɪ.ʋə]; Sanskrit: शिव, Śiva, lit. "Auspicious one" )
is a major Hindu god, and one aspect of Trimurti.
In the Shaiva tradition of Hinduism,
Shiva is seen as the supreme God.
In the Smarta tradition, he is one of
the five primary forms of God.

Devanagari शिव
Affiliation Deva
Abode Mount Kailāsa
Mantra Aum Namah Sivaya
Weapon Trident (Trishul)
Consort Parvati or Sati or Shakti or Durga and Ganga
Mount Nandi (Bull)

MONDAY 23rd Febrary is the “Night of Shiva”





According to the Hindu calendar, once a year on the new moon in the month of “Maagha”
(similar sound to the name for Ma-ka-ra for the Thai name for this month of March)
occurs “the Night of Shiva” or what is called “MahaShivaratri”

The tradition followed by Shiva devotees is to fast from grains,or fruits; bananas n milk,
or fast completely from food, stay up all night and chant OM NAMAH SHIVAYA.
Many temples in India and around the world celebrate this auspicious day and night.

Followers of Hinduism who focus their worship upon Shiva are called Shaivites or Shaivas (Sanskrit Śaiva). Shaivism, along with Vaiṣṇava traditions that focus on Vishnu, and Śākta traditions that focus on the goddess Devī are three of the most influential denominations in Hinduism.

Shiva is usually worshipped in the form of Shiva linga. In images, he is generally represented as immersed in deep meditation or dancing the Tandava upon Maya, the demon of ignorance in his manifestation of Nataraja, the lord of the dance.

Shiva am I

Chami...jfu....nice duet wid pics...

mere bhole baba

Shiv Bhajan By Anuradha Paudwal

Gayatri


Gayatri mantra by Anuradha Paudwal..

Shiva

Lord Shiva Mythology cartoon...for those wid kids...

Bholenath

Dedicated to my Jahajee ancestors descendents...

kanwariya

Chams...kanwariya bhajan..tune familiar...Kanchan...

Celebrate Shivaratri 2009 on Monday 23rd February

Shivaratri is celebrated on the 6th night of the dark Phalgun (Feb or March) every year. On the auspicious day, devotees observe fast and keep vigil all night. Mahashivaratri marks the night when Lord Shiva performed the 'Tandava'. It is also believed that on this day Lord Shiva was married to Parvati Ma. On this day Shiva devotees observe fast and offer fruits, flowers and bel leaves on Shiva Linga.

SHIVARATRI FAST

Shivaratri Fast is considered to be the most important fast for the devotees of Lord Shiva. Shiva Purana goes on to say that if a devotee observes Shivaratri Vrata with sincerity, pure devotion and love he is blessed with the divine grace of Lord Shiva. Every year devotees observe Maha Shivaratri fast with devotion and sincerity. Though many go on a diet of fruits and milk, some do not consume even a drop of water all through the day and night of Shivaratri Festival.

Merits of Mahashivratri Vrat

According to Hindu mythology, observance of mahashivratri Vrat with discipline helps a devotee to control the two great natural forces that afflict a man, rajas guna (the quality of passionate activity) and tamas guna (the quality of inertia). When a devotee spends an entire day in the Feet of Lord and worships with sincerity, his motion is controlled and evils like lust, anger and jealousy, born of Rajas are ignored and subdued. Besides, when a devotee observes vigil throughout the night (jaagran) he manages to conquer the evils of Tamas Guna too. It has also been mentioned that when a devotee observes a round of worship every three hours, the Shivaratri Vrata becomes perfect.

Devotees of Lord Shiva believe consider Shivratri fast to be extremely auspicious and rate it equal or more than performing an Ashwamedha Yagna. Some believe that a devotee who observes a Shivaratri Fast with sincerity and utters the name of Lord Shiva with perfect devotion is absolved from all sins. Such a devotee reaches the abode of Lord Shiva and lives there happily. He is also liberated from the cycle of birth and death.

Customs and Traditions of Shivaratri Fast

As a tradition, devotees who are on a strict fast on Shivaratri take bath with the water that is boiled with black sesame seeds to wash away bodily impurities. After putting on fresh new clothes, a devotee visit the nearest Lord Shiva temple to perform the ritual Shiva Linga bath with milk, honey etc. While bathing the Lingam a devotee prays, "O Lord ! I will bathe Thee with water, milk, etc. Do Thou kindly bathe me with the milk of wisdom. Do Thou kindly wash me of all my sins, so that the fire of worldliness which is scorching me may be put out once for all, so that I may be one with Thee-the One alone without a second."

Following the sacred bath, devotee applies haldi-kumkum on the lingum and place a garland of white and pink lotus flowers on it. Bel leaves are also placed at the top of the Lingum. Aarthi and bhajans in praise of Lord Shiva are also sung to invoke his blessings. Devotee also light incense stick and ring temple bell to invoke the blessing of the large-hearted Lord Shiva.

It may be noted that unlike most other festivals, where after performing the Puja of the deity a feast follows, a Shivratri fast continues all through the day and night. Devotees observe an all night vigil while chanting the mantra, "Om Namah Shivaya" and singing devotional hymns and songs. Even during the night, Shiva Lings is given the holy bath every three hours. An offering of fruits is also made to the deity. There is also the tradition to listen to the recital of various legends and stories related to Shivaratri and Lord Shiva and to understand its deeper meanings. It is only in the following morning that a devotee breaks the fast by consuming the prasad offered to Lord Shankar.

Lord Shiva...awesome ...handsome... goodlooking...nice naag n foot ring...

Shiva temple in Manikaran..Himachal Pradesh..
the hot hot baths...check the steam rising...

shivoham shivoham

Nirvana Shatkam

By Adi Sankaracharya,
Translated by P. R. Ramachander


Mano budhyahankara chithaa ninaham,
Na cha srothra jihwe na cha graana nethrer,
Na cha vyoma bhoomir na thejo na vayu,
Chidananada Roopa Shivoham, Shivoham.

Neither am I mind, nor intelligence ,
Nor ego, nor thought,
Nor am I ears or the tongue or the nose or the eyes,
Nor am I earth or sky or air or the light,
I am Shiva, I am Shiva, of nature knowledge and bliss

Na cha praana sangno na vai pancha vaayuh,
Na vaa saptha dhathur na va pancha kosa,
Na vak pani padam na chopastha payu,
Chidananada Roopa Shivoham, Shivoham.

Neither am I the movement due to life,
Nor am I the five airs, nor am I the seven elements,
Nor am I the five internal organs,
Nor am I voice or hands or feet or other organs,
I am Shiva, I am Shiva, of nature knowledge and bliss

Na me dwesha raghou na me lobha mohou,
Madho naiva me naiva matsarya bhava,
Na dharmo na cha artha na kamo na moksha,
Chidananada Roopa Shivoham, Shivoham.

I never do have enmity or friendship,
Neither do I have vigour nor feeling of competition,
Neither do I have assets, or money or passion or salvation,
I am Shiva, I am Shiva, of nature knowledge and bliss

Na punyam na paapam na soukhyam na dukham,
Na manthro na theertham na veda na yagna,
Aham bhojanam naiva bhojyam na bhoktha,
Chidananada Roopa Shivoham, Shivoham.

Never do I have good deeds or sins or pleasure or sorrow,
Neither do I have holy chants or holy water or holy books or fire sacrifice,
I am neither food or the consumer who consumes food,
I am Shiva, I am Shiva, of nature knowledge and bliss

Na mruthyur na sankha na me jathi bhedha,
Pitha naiva me naiva matha na janma,
Na bhandhur na mithram gurur naiva sishyah,
Chidananada Roopa Shivoham, Shivoham.

I do not have death or doubts or distinction of caste,
I do not have either father or mother or even birth,
And I do not have relations or friends or teacher or students,
I am Shiva, I am Shiva, of nature knowledge and bliss

Aham nirvi kalpo nirakara roopo,
Vibhuthwascha sarvathra sarvendriyanaam,
Na chaa sangatham naiva mukthir na meyah
Chidananada Roopa Shivoham, Shivoham.

I am one without doubts , I am without form,
Due to knowledge I do not have any relation with my organs,
And I am always redeemed,
I am Shiva, I am Shiva, of nature knowledge and bliss

om shivaya

Chami...Jagjit sings...

om nama shiva

nice bhajan...

In some other Hindu denominations, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva represent the three primary aspects of the divine in Hinduism and are collectively known as the Trimurti.

Brahma is the creator, Vishnu is the maintainer or preserver, and Shiva is the destroyer or transformer.

In some other Hindu denominations, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva represent the three primary aspects of the divine in Hinduism and are collectively known as the Trimurti.

In this school of religious thought, Brahma is the creator, Vishnu is the maintainer or preserver, and Shiva is the destroyer or transformer.

Etymology and Other Names

The Sanskrit word Shiva (Devanagari: शिव, śiva) is an adjective meaning auspicious, kind, gracious. As a proper name it means "The Auspicious One", used as a euphemistic name for Rudra. In simple English transliteration it is written either as Shiva or Siva. Pronunciation is written in the International Phonetic Alphabet as IPA: [ɕivə]. The adjective śiva meaning "auspicious" is used as an attributive epithet not particularly of Rudra, but of several other Vedic deities. In the Rig Veda, Indra uses this word to describe himself several times. (2:20:3, 6:45:17, 8:93:3)

In Tamil, Shiva literally means "the supreme one". Tamil "Siva" means Red. Adi Sankara in his interpretation of the name Shiva, the 27th and 600th name of Vishnu sahasranama interprets Shiva to mean either "The Pure One", the One who is not affected by three Gunas of Prakrti, Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas or "the One who purifies everyone by the very utterance of His name." Swami Chinmayananda, in his translation of Vishnu Sahasranama further elaborates on that verse: Shiva means the One who is eternally pure, or the One who can never have any contamination of the imperfection of Rajas and Tamas.

The Sanskrit word śaiva means "relating to the God Shiva", and this term is the Sanskrit name both for one of the principal sects of Hinduism, and for a member of one of those sects. It is used as an adjective to characterize certain beliefs and practices, such as Shaivism.

The name Shiva, in one interpretation, is also said to have derived from the Dravidian word “Siva” meaning “to be red”. It is the equivalent of Rudra, “the red” RigVeda.

Siva's role as the primary deity of Shaivism is reflected in his epithets Mahādeva ("great god"; mahā = great + deva = god), Maheśhvara ("great lord"; mahā = great + īśhvara = lord), and Parameśhvara ("Supreme Lord").

There are at least eight different versions of the Shiva Sahasranama, devotional hymns (stotras) listing many names of Shiva. The version appearing in Book 13 (Anuśāsanaparvan) of the Mahabharata is considered the kernel of this tradition. Shiva also has Dasha-Sahasranamas (10,000 names) that are found in the Mahanyasa. The Shri Rudram Chamakam, also known as the Śatarudriya, is a devotional hymn to Shiva hailing him by many names.

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Historical Development

The worship of Shiva is a pan-Hindu tradition, practiced widely across all of India, Nepal and Sri Lanka. Some historians believe that the figure of Shiva as we know him today was built-up over time, with the ideas of many regional sects being amalgamated into a single figure. How the persona of Shiva converged as a composite deity is not well-documented. Axel Michaels explains the composite nature of Shaivism as follows:

Like Vişņu, Śiva is also a high god, who gives his name to a collection of theistic trends and sects: Śaivism. Like Vaişņavism, the term also implies a unity which cannot be clearly found either in religious practice or in philosophical and esoteric doctrine. Furthermore, practice and doctrine must be kept separate.

An example of assimilation took place in Maharashtra, where a regional deity named Khandoba is a patron deity of farming and herding castes. The foremost center of worship of Khandoba in Maharashtra is in Jejuri. Khandoba has been assimilated both as a name for Karttikya and also as a form of Shiva himself in which case he is worshipped in the form of a lingam. Khandoba's varied associations also include an indentification with Surya. The derivation of the name Khandoba has been variously interpreted, and M. S. Mate says that the most commonly-held belief is that it was a distorted form of Skanda, but also notes alternate theories.

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THE PASHUPATI SEAL - MOHENJO-DARO EXCAVAION





A seal discovered during the excavation of Mohenjo-daro has drawn attention as a possible representation of a "proto-Shiva" figure. This "Pashupati" (Lord of animal-like beings) seal shows a seated figure, possibly ithyphallic, surrounded by animals.

Sir John Marshall and others have claimed that this figure is a prototype of Shiva, and have described the figure as having three faces, seated in a "yoga posture" with the knees out and feet joined.

However, this claim is not without its share of critics with some academics like Gavin Flood and John Keay characterizing them as unfounded.

Performing a Pashupati sacrifice...interesing..interpretation...

A statue in Bengaluru depicting Shiva meditating

Trimurti, stone relief in a cave temple on Elephanta Island, India.

CITY OF CAVES - ELEPHANTA ISLAND

The 'City of Caves', on an island in the Sea of Oman close to Bombay, contains a collection of rock art linked to the cult of Shiva.

Here, Indian art has found one of its most perfect expressions, particularly the huge high reliefs in the main cave.

Elephanta (Hindi Gharapuri), small island, western India, in Mumbai Harbor, between Mumbai (formerly Bombay) and the mainland. It contains rice fields and stone quarries.

The island is famous for six 8th-century temple caves carved out of rock and containing sculptured figures of Hindu deities. The Great Cave is supported by pillars cut out of the rock and is 40 m (130 ft) long, 40 m (130 ft) wide, and 5 m (18 ft) high.

In the center of the cave is a striking three-headed bust representing the Hindu gods Brahma, the creator; Vishnu, the preserver; and Shiva, the destroyer.

Compartments surrounding the bust contain more religious sculptures. The European name of the island is derived from a large stone elephant that once stood near the landing place.

quote:

Originally posted by RQ:
om shivaya

Chami...Jagjit sings...

playing it right now...

Thanks RQ

btw, my chameli flower is blooming (my jazmine)

how is yours doing?

quote:

Originally posted by chameli:

quote:

Originally posted by RQ:
om shivaya

Chami...Jagjit sings...

playing it right now...

Thanks RQ

btw, my chameli flower is blooming (my jazmine)

how is yours doing?

have a few blooms...dem na look after while i was away starve dem fuh wata...one died...one half dead...and deh adda wan stuggling...meh saying dem prayas fuh dem...

did you check deh adda page...shivoham wid lyics and trans...i search for hrs jfu...

RQ...u jes too sweet...jes as sweet as my fav. fragrance....chameli

pray for dem plants...talk to dem, tell dem how sad u will be if dem die...it works

thank u for all the nice tunes

u welcome...i like when yuh around...no one else come around to say hi or bye...jess so quiet...

navraat

Title Song from the Hindi Film "Navratri" (1983)

main tu aarti

dedicating for Navraat...main to aarti utaaroon...

madat karo

MADAD KARO SANTOSHI MATA...

jahan wahan

YAHAAN WAHAAN APNI SANTOSHI MAA

jai jagdis hare

om jai jagdish hare...Anuradha Paudwal

jai jagdish hare

Lataji Sings...jai jagdish hare

Saraswati Ma

Anuradha Paudwal - Om jai Saraswati Mata

Jai Saraswati

Sarasvati Bhajan:जय सरस्वती वरदे महरानि(Jai Saraswati Varde)

Saraswati Vandana

Saraswati is the Hindu Goddess of knowledge, music and all the creative arts. Saraswati is called the Mother of the Veda's and the repository of Brahma's creative intelligence.

Saraswati is also called Vak Devi, the Goddess of speech.

Dressed in white, Saraswati holds a mala and a palm leaf scroll, indicating knowledge. Saraswati usually rides a swan and sometimes a peacock, while playing music on a veena.

Sarasvati Stavan

Lataji sings...Sarasvati Stavan..

Sarasvati Beej Mantra

This is a very beautiful rendition of the Sarasvati beej mantra.
Hope you enjoy it and please feel free to leave your comments.

Sarasvati Mata blessings to all and ENJOY!

Lyrics: OM SHREEM HREEM SARASWATYAI NAMAHA

Syllable Meanings:
OM: Divine Reality
SHREEM: for material prosperity
HREEM: for becoming a leader and fulfilling desires for power
SARASWATYAI: Saraswati Mata
NAMAHA: we bow - show reverence.

Sarasvati Sharada

Mata Saraswati Sharada - Lata Mangeshkar (Aalaap)

Sarasvati

Sarasvati Devi Sharade song ( Devotional )

Saraswati, Lakshmi and Ganapati

Growing up, I remember seeing this in every home, either as a calendar or a picture frame.
Love the bright colors! Beautiful, no?

GODDESS SARASVATI

Ganga Maa, Saraswati Maa & Jamuna Maa

Teerthraaj Prayaag...an interesting concept in graphics

Celebrate Goddess Saraswati

Sree Panchami, the day to honour Sri Saraswati, goddess of learning and wisdom

Wear yellow and bring yellow flowers to the Saraswati shrine, temple....

It's considered the most auspicious day to begin learning anything, especially to read or write a new language.

The following prayer is recited on this day:

Yaa Kundendu tushaara haaradhavalaa, Yaa shubhravastraavritha|
veenavara dandamanditakara, Yaa shwetha padmaasana||

Yaa brahmaachyutha shankara prabhritibhir Devaisadaa Vanditha|
Saa Maam Paatu Saraswatee Bhagavatee Nihshesha jaadyaapahaa||

English Translation:

"May Goddess Saraswati,

who is fair like the jasmine-colored moon,
and whose pure white garland is like frosty dew drops;
who is adorned in radiant white attire,
on whose beautiful arm rests the veena,
and whose throne is a white lotus;
who is surrounded and respected by the Gods, protect me.
May you fully remove my lethargy, sluggishness, and ignorance."
Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and arts, represents the free flow of wisdom and consciousness.

Funny comparion..

Saraswati's archetype appears elsewhere in world culture. For instance, Lisa Simpson represents very much the same archetype (Goddess of learning, wisdom and knowledge).

In the western pantheon (we actually do have one), she would be Athena, goddess of learning and wisdom; though Athena is also equated with war, which both Lisa Simpson and Saraswati would emphatically disown.

And I have heard that the Tibetan version of Saraswati is Tsering-Ma.

Labels: devi, festival, hindu, holiday, panchami, sarada, saraswati, sirensongs

Goddess Saraswati in medley of modern hi-tech colours

SPRING FESTIVAL OF INDIA - HOLI - PHAGWA - BHOJPURI

Holi (referred to as Phagwa in Bhojpuri), also called the Festival of Colours, is a popular Hindu spring festival observed in India, Guyana, Trinidad, the UK and Nepal and other parts of the world. In West Bengal, it is known as Dolyatra (Doljatra) or Boshonto Utsav ("spring festival").

On the first day, burning of the demoness Holika, Hiranyakashipu's sister, in huge bonfires at night. It is called Kama dahanam in Andhra Pradesh.

On the second day, known as Dhulheti, people spend the day throwing coloured powder and water at each other. The spring season, during which the weather changes, is believed to cause viral fever and cold. Thus, the playful throwing of the coloured powders has a medicinal significance: the colours are traditionally made of Neem, Kumkum, Haldi, Bilva, and other medicinal herbs prescribed by Āyurvedic doctors. A special drink called thandai is prepared, sometimes containing bhang (Cannabis sativa).

Rangapanchami occurs a few days later on a Panchami (fifth day of the full moon), marking the end of festivities involving colours.

Holi takes place over two days in the later part of February or March. As per the Hindu calendar, it falls on the Phalgun Purnima (or Pooranmashi, Full Moon), which occurr on March 11 in 2009.

source

Hindu Holi Festival

Holi will be celebrated on March 11th - 2009.

The Spring Festival of India, Holi - is a festival of colors. Celebrated in March or April according to the Hindu calendar, it was meant to welcome the spring and win the blessings of Gods for good harvests and fertility of the land.

As with all the Hindu festivals, there are many interesting legends attached to Holi, the most popular being that of Prince Prahlad, who was a devout follower of Lord Vishnu. It is the second most important festival of India after Diwali. Holi in India is a festival of fun and frolic and has been associated with the immortal love of Krishna and Radha. The exuberance and the festivity of the season are remarkable.

Unlike all the other festivals of India, Hindu Holi festival is one such festival where one can put down the social taboos and indulge in the intoxicating drinks and sweets prepared by using opium??. It is a festival of romance often represented by the love-play of Radha and Krishna. Brij Holi is famous all over the world for its gaiety in spirit. Each year, young and old, men and women, all indulge themselves in the spirit of colors and for once forget the social taboos. There are mouthwatering delicacies to savor such as 'Gujhias' and 'Papris' and there are interesting traditions and customs of Holi that have their own regional variances.


source

CELEBRATING HOLI

Holi is the festival which arrives adding a little warmth into the air. It is not just the season which is changing, but also the mood of the people. The festival signifies the spirit of brotherhood and unity. It is often said that on the event of this festival even enemies forget their differences and embrace, greeting each other. Holi festival is celebrated by the people of all caste, class or creed, without any distinction. It treats everyone equally, wherein all the people drenched in different colors, lose their identity to become one. In the following lines, we tell you how people go about celebrating Holi festival in India.

Holi Milan

Holi washes away all the hard feelings you have accumulated for anyone. The colors applied on others bring you closer to them, forgetting all the anguish of the past. After applying colors, people hug and greet each other. This tradition is called as 'Holi Milan'. Usually after a fun filled and action packed day, people dressed in new clothes pay visit to their friends and relatives with sweets. This helps in renewing and strengthening their bonds. As per the custom, a plate decorated with tilak (vermillion) and sweets is kept ready for the guests.

People apply tilak, exchange sweets and hug each, while giving Holi wishes. Being in the company of near and dear ones, helps you to reenergize. Those staying away from their families use mediums like cards and telephones to greet each other. Special invitations are extended to new bride, which helps her to feel comfortable and mingle with the members of her new family. Special meal is prepared on the occasion to treat her well and to bless the newly wed couple.

Holi Meets

'Holi Milan Samaroh' or 'Holi Greeting Meets' are a special feature of the festival and are organized by various clubs and social organizations. This helps in strengthening the social fabric of the society, as people sit with each other and enjoy cultural programs like songs, dance, competitions and feasts.

Hasya Kavi Sammelan (Comic Poetic gatherings) is also organized on Holi. Poets recite comic prose and poetry for the entertainment of the audience, which adds up to the fervor of the festival.

CUSTOMS OF HOLI


Holi is the festival of Spring, the festival of romance, the festival of the triumph of good over evil, a festival of colors and festival of fun and pranks. It is a festival to shake off the shackles of what is to be done and what is not to be done for once and loosen up a bit.

It is a festival to let your hair down and do what you like, say what you like and meet and tease anybody you like. The best part is that all the offences and anger gets dissolved with one boisterous shout of 'Bura na mano, holi hai!' (Don't be angry, its Holi!) this shout is considered to be a part of the long tradition of the festival of Holi.

The festival is celebrated on the full-moon day of Phalguna, though it stretched up to a week in Northern India and six-day long in Manipur. As the tradition goes all the people gather around on a day before the Holi as we know it, it is the evening of bonfires.

People light up bonfires of dead leaves, twigs and sticks and people dance and sing around it to welcome the Spring and commemorate the saving of Prahlad and burning of his wicked aunt Holika.

People take embers from this holy fire to rekindle their own domestic fires.

Burning Dhuni..very colourful decorations around the holika fire...

Holika Dahan, or burning of demon Holika, is an important event during Holi festival. On the night before Holi, people light fire with old things, sticks, branches and leaves. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil. The bonfire can also be interpreted as a cleansing ceremony to assure in Holi festival.

Legend has it that the Demon king Hiranyakashipu was able to suppress all this subjects and make them his devotees. All his citizens prayed to Hiranyakashipu and not to Vishnu. But Prahalad, the little son of Hiranyakashipu, prayed to Lord Vishnu. He tried all means to stop Prahalad from worshipping Vishnu but he failed.

Hiranyakashipu then decided to kill his son. But each attempt to kill Prahalad was thwarted by Vishnu. Finally, the demon king took the help of his sister Holika. Fire could do nothing to her as she was immune to fire.

So, she took young Prahalad and sat in a huge bowl of fire. But this time young Prahalad came out with any damage and Holika was burnt to death. The little boy Prahalad was able to overcome evil in the form of Holika through his unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu.

In remembrance of this event, people lit bonfire known as Holika Dahan.

After the Holi fire burns, the ashes and the mud are collected from the site. Clay idols, representing the gods, are molded and placed in temples. Each morning, women and young girls, grandly attired and carrying brass and earthen pots on their heads, filled with water and decked with flowers and leaves, singing Gangaur songs, can be seen in the streets on their way to the temple. For the next 18 days they worship these idols

In some communities, people roast barley seeds in the fire to eat and it is believed that the yield of the coming harvest season can be predicted by reading the direction of the flames or the state of the roasted seeds. The ashes of the Holi fire are believed to have some medicinal properties. Next morning, it is 'Dhuledi' or the main festival of colors where adults and kids alike splash each other with colored powder and water jets known as 'pichkaris'. Traditionally, only natural colors prepared from flowers and herbal products were used but today, artificial colors have taken over. Now people often use colored foams and balloons filled with colored water to pop-up at anybody they can play prank upon. The color frenzy of oranges and reds, greens and blues, purples and blacks soon wash away all the enmity and hatred amongst the festival and serves to bring the community closer. Holi sweets and delicacies are an important part of the festival as one can relish 'Gujhias' in Northern India and 'Puran Poli' in Maharashtra. 'Thandai' (a cool drink of milk) mixed with 'bhang' (an intoxicating substance) is to be beware of, as it is very common during Holi.

Now people often use balloons filled with colored water to pop-up at anybody they can play pranks on.

HOLI AROUND THE WORLD

Though Holi is purely an Indian festival, it is gradually appealing to the international populace as well. The splendor and charisma of the festival is such that it is celebrated far beyond the boundaries of the country. The secular character of Holi is established by the fact that people residing in different parts of the world soak themselves in the colors of Holi. Indians have spread to the different corners of the globe, contributing to the fact that Holi festival is celebrated widely.

This festival knows no bars, no boundaries. The gusto and the bonhomie with which it is celebrated, is simply worth seeing. People play with colors, light a bonfire called Holika and celebrate the victory of good over evil. The world has become a global village and all the barriers related to caste, color, religion and region are fading away. This is exactly what the festival of Holi propagates. Universal brotherhood, unity and peace are some of the virtues preached by it.

The festival provides people with an opportunity to mingle with each other, thereby improving their ties and bonds. The Indians settled abroad are even more eager to celebrate the festival, as it reminds them of their motherland and their loved ones. Like India, they also exchange sweets and greet each other. The spirit of festivity binds them to their roots. A break from the hum drum of daily life, Holi provides an opportunity to soak them in the colors of harmony.

Holi festival is celebrated with ardor in the countries like USA and UK. These countries constitute a sizeable population of Indians which tells us the reason why the festival is observed with such gaiety here. In USA, religious organizations and societies take the responsibility of organizing the festival. Music programs and meets are conducted to fill the air with the spirit of India. New York is completely dabbled by the colorful waters. Holi is marked by parades and attended by Indians, rejoicing, playing with colors in the midst.

The charm of the festival is enriched by dance performances, fashion shows and music concerts presented by the glitzy, glamorous Bollywood stars. On the other hand, in UK, the revelry of the festival is seen profoundly at places with a large congregation of Indians. The British city of Leicester is particularly known for its love for celebrating Indian festivals. The enthusiasm reaches its peak on the occasion of Holi. The joyous festival is marked with social gatherings and exchange of sweets.

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Holi Celebrations in Houston - USA

IDRF Holi Celebrations - A Colourful Event

The near-zero temperatures could not deter some 600 adults and children from celebrating Holi "The Festival of Colors", the way it is traditionally celebrated in India. The fun-filled event organized at the premises of Milan Restaurant and Banquet Halls in Shrewsbury on March 15th, was an IDRF fundraiser. While the participants had fun, they also had the satisfaction of knowing that their contribution was going to bring much needed succor to drought-hit victims of Rajasthan, India.

Fund Raising event with Holi celebrations

Rang De Holi Hungama

One of the biggest Holi Celebrations in Boston & New England !!!

A scene from Asha Stanford’s Holi celebrations last year.

Holi - or Phagwa - Festival of Colours celebration in Richmond Hills, Queens, NYC.

Celebrations in Suffolk, UK

More on this colourful festival coming...

Holi in Richmond Hill, NY, Smokey Park, 2003
Members of Durga Shakha, HSS, Holi 2003

Holi at Indo-American Forum, Fort Bend, US

IDRF Holi celebrations - Boston
While the participants had fun celebrating Holi, they were also contributing
to Ved Mandir, NGO in J&K working for the victims of terrorism.

Significance of Holi


Holi is one of the most colorful and vibrant festivals celebrated in India. Like many other festivals, Holi has an ancient origin, the tradition of which is being followed since time immemorial. Considering the religious importance of the festival, it is associated with a number of mythological stories.

The most popular amongst them is that of Radha and Lord Krishna, wherein, he playfully applied color on Radha's cheek, as she was fairer than him. This gave rise to the festival of Holi and the tradition of playing with colors.

The significance of the festival has not diminished since then and even applies to the cultural, social and biological aspects of our lives.

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Cultural Significance

The cultural significance of Holi can be gauged from the fact that its origin derives reference from various mythological tales. This has led to a deep faith and respect towards the celebration of the festival, as Indians strongly believe in religious mythology.

The moral behind all these stories is victory of good over evil, which is a lesson for the human race. The tales instill the faith of man into the ultimate power of God and his mercy over his devotees. Holi festival is the medium through which people are inspired to lead a virtuous life.

Moreover, the festival is organized at the time when the harvest is at full bloom, giving people an opportunity to rejoice.

Social Significance

The social significance of Holi is seen in the form of the message of unity and brotherhood, it delivers. As per the custom and tradition, people pay visits to their friends and relatives, to give them wishes as well as to strengthen their bonds.

The festival brings the nation together as it is just not celebrated by Hindus but, also by the Sikhs, Christians, Jains and the like. The festival is unique as it does not discriminate against any section of the society and treats everyone equally.

The social fabric and secular character of the society is strengthened, since people work on building cordial relations, forgiving their hard feelings for others.

Biological Significance

Apart from the Cultural and Social significance of the festival, Holi considerably affects the biological system of our body. The time, at which Holi is celebrated, is very crucial with respect to our body.

During the festival, the season is going through a change - from winters to summers. It is the period when people feel lethargic and drowsy. Holi provides them the opportunity to wear off their laziness, by enjoying themselves thoroughly. Given below are some of the positive affects of Holi on our system.

The dance and music rejuvenates the system. The color, especially Abeer, penetrates the body and strengthens the ions, improving health and beauty.

During the tradition of Holika Dahan, people circumambulate around it the fire. This ritual kills the bacteria in the body and makes it clean.

In South India, people put ash (vibhuti) on their forehead, after burning Holika. Besides, they consume paste of young leaves and flowers of Mango tree, mixed with sandalwood for good health.

During Holi, people clean their houses and remove clutter, thereby ensuring flow of positive energy.

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Holi re holi...Rango ki toli

more rang toli designs

Holi Colors


Dry Holi colors known as 'Gulal' and wet colors or 'Rang' were originally prepared naturally from the flowers and other products that had dyeing properties. However with time, in the quest of more long-lasting and strong colors, chemically enhanced and artificial colors have come in vogue.

The harmful effects of these chemicals on our body and eyes have forced us to do a turn-about to the natural colors. However, you certainly don't need to disappoint as one can create beautiful reds, greens, blues, saffrons, yellows and magentas at home and that too naturally.

These natural holi colors are perfectly safe and do not cause any harm to skin or to the face. Also there is no trouble if these colors go into the eye and are also easy to take off after playing a good spirited Holi festival.

Here we have provided some eazy steps for preparing these colors as most of the time the colors or gulal that you will buy from the market is goin to be made up of the artificial material. So make these holi rang and enjoy using them with your friends and family.

Lovely Red Gulal

Red Sandalwood Powder also known as 'Raktachandan' or 'Lal chandan' has a beautiful red color and is good for skin too. It can be used dry as 'Gulal' or as 'Rang' by boiling two teaspoon of color with five litres of water and diluting it with twenty litres of water.

Shade-dry red hibiscus flowers and powder them to make a lovely red color. One can add flour to it to increase the bulk. The brick-red colored seeds of Sinduria (Annato) yield both dry and wet colors. Boil peels of Red Pomegranate in water to give wet color.

Add a pinch of lime powder and 2 table spoon of turmeric powder to half a cup of water. After mixing it thoroughly, diluting the mixture with 10 litres of water. Juice of tomatoes and carrots can also be used after diluting it in water to remove the stickiness.

source

Natural Green Gulal

Mehendi or henna powder can be used as dry 'Gulal' or can be mixed with water to make wet color that will stain the body and face of the receiver. However, it is goof for the hair.
Dry and finely powder the leaves of Gulmohur tree for natural green 'gulal'.

Crush the tender leaves of the wheat plant for the dry color. Wet green color can be obtained by mixing a paste of spinach, coriander or mint leaves in water.

Beautiful Magenta Gulal

Slice or grate one beetroot and soak it in 1 litre of water for beautiful magenta color. Leave overnight for a deeper shade and then dilute it with water.

Bright Saffron Gulal

Traditional Indian color made by soaking overnight Butea monosperma known as 'Tesu' or 'Palash' in Indian languages in water is said to have medicinal properties.

A pinch of sandalwood powder added in 1 litre of water gives instant saffron color. Make a paste of saffron stalks in 2 tablespoons of water by soaking it for few hours and then grinding it. Dilute it with water for desired color strength. It is excellent for skin but expensive too.

source

Holi Powder, Bhubaneswar, India

A woman in Bhubaneswar, India, grinds brilliant red mineral pigments to powder on a stone pestle for Holi, the Indian festival of color.
During Holi celebrants toss clouds of powdered pigments in shades of indigo, magenta, and saffron to celebrate the Spring Festival of Holi.

rasiya holi ka

Bhangra beats...Rangeela Radhaji Krishna...

holi re

Mangal Pandey ....The Holi Song

Bhagi Re Bhagi

Hema Malini n Dharmendra...Rajput..

Phagwa in Queens

2008 Phagwa pics in Queens...slideshow..

quote:

Originally posted by chameli:

Gurl..u up late...meh had jess shut down..see my cards...n tunes for you...on BM4U...

Transvaal wijkpark Den Haag...Holi in Den Haag park....Holland

Phagwa in Trinidad......

Guyanese celebrating Holi in Guyana..

New Yorkers Celebrate:

The West Indian community of New York came out in the tens of thousands to celebrate the annual Hindu spring festival of Phaguaa on March 15. In familiar style they doused one another with abeer and smeared coloured powder recklessly on all and sundry. They paraded along the popular Liberty Avenue singing and making merry and finally assembled at Smokey Park where they were addressed by community leaders.

Picture above shows the sea of humanity bathed in myriad colours symbolising the richness and spirit of the season. See any Canadians..am sure there were many Canadians there as well :

How to Celebrate Holi

Holi (also called Holaka or Phagwa) is the Hindu Festival of Colors. Held over several days in early March (the Hindu month of Phalguna), the festival celebrates the coming of spring and is known for merrymaking and mischief. Social norms are ignored, bringing everyone together in celebration. A common saying heard during Holi is "Bura na mano, Holi hai!" ("don't feel offended, it's Holi!").

Here are some of its rituals:

1 Day: Rang Pashi.

A metal plate, or 'thali', is arranged with colored powders. Colored water is placed in a small brass container called a `lota`. The eldest male member of the family begins the festivities by sprinkling the water and powders on each member of the assembled family. It is then the turn of the younger ones to do the same. In this way, affection and blessings are shared by all in the family. The celebrations on this day end with the partaking of food specially cooked for this occasion.

Step 2 Day Two: Puno.

On this day a public bonfire is held. The fire is lit sometime between 10 p. m. and midnight (at the rising of the moon). Everyone gathers in the street for the event, and the air rings with shouts, catcalls, curses and general mayhem. Usually this is a community celebration and people gather near the fire to fill the air with folk strains and dances. Snacks are roasted in the bonfire and eaten.

Step 3: Day Three: Parva.

The climax of the festival. Children, friends and neighbors gather on the streets and a riot of color takes over. Colored powders are thrown into the air and smeared on faces and bodies. Water balloons are thrown at friends and neighbors in the spirit of fun. Sometimes, mud baths are prepared and people are `dunked` into this amidst laughter and cheers.

Day 4 Step 4 In Bengal

Holi features the Dolayatra (Swing Festival), in which images of the gods are placed on specially decorated platforms and devotees take turns swinging them. Meanwhile, women dance around and sing special songs as men spray colored water at them.

1 Day: Rang Pashi.

A metal plate, or 'thali', is arranged with colored powders. Colored water is placed in a small brass container called a `lota`. The eldest male member of the family begins the festivities by sprinkling the water and powders on each member of the assembled family. It is then the turn of the younger ones to do the same. In this way, affection and blessings are shared by all in the family. The celebrations on this day end with the partaking of food specially cooked for this occasion.

Step 2 Day Two: Puno.

On this day a public bonfire is held. The fire is lit sometime between 10 p. m. and midnight (at the rising of the moon). Everyone gathers in the street for the event, and the air rings with shouts, catcalls, curses and general mayhem. Usually this is a community celebration and people gather near the fire to fill the air with folk strains and dances. Snacks are roasted in the bonfire and eaten.

Step 3: Day Three: Parva.

The climax of the festival. Children, friends and neighbors gather on the streets and a riot of color takes over. Colored powders are thrown into the air and smeared on faces and bodies. Water balloons are thrown at friends and neighbors in the spirit of fun. Sometimes, mud baths are prepared and people are `dunked` into this amidst laughter and cheers.

Day 4 Step 4 In Bengal

Holi features the Dolayatra (Swing Festival), in which images of the gods are placed on specially decorated platforms and devotees take turns swinging them.

Meanwhile, women dance around and sing special songs as men spray colored water at them.

Never saw this in GY....when the Bengalis came in GY they forgot this swinging part...for the celebrations...jess eat, drink and make colourful merry...

Anan..Chami..Devdas..IK..Mitwah..Nehru..Rajk...Riya..Tuco..TP..Holi ki Hardik
Shubhkamnaye - Wishing all of you celebrating...Happy Holi - March 11, 2009

Jahajees Holi or Bhojpuri Phagwa

Phagwa or Holi is celebrated in the later part of the month of Phalgun and the early part of Chaitra,in the Hindu calendar.This corresponds to the English months of March-April.This festival was first celebrated in Guyana Trinidad and the Caribbean.

The Hindus who came from Bihar in India as indentured labourers on the sugarcane fields ,brought this festival and has celebrated it for the last -+170 years in Guyana, Trindida 156 years, Surinaam and other Caribbean Islands. Actually ,the only difference between Phagwa and Holi is the name.

This festival of colours is celebrated with songs, music and dances. A variety of watercolours are mixed and sprayed on all those who participate in the celebrations and corresponding coloured powder is smeared on their bodies as well. In the early days of Indentureship, the festival was observed very modestly because of the many constraints that the Hindus had to deal with in the migrated countries.

However, today it is celebrated at a national level ,in a grand style throughout Trinidad, Guyana and the Caribbean. A special type of folk song called Chowtal is sung during the course of the festival and the music is usually played with only two instruments. The dholak (a hand drum) and the majeera (cymbals or percussion instrument) are the only two instruments used.

The music is fast paced and provokes dancing and the Chowtal songs are sung rather loudly and are high pitched. Together, they produce a rich cultural blend of talents and skills. It is not uncommon that during the festivities enemies embrace each other and forget their differences, if but for a short while.

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Historical Perspective of Holi

The word Holi was derived from the Sanskrit word Holka meaning parched grains.The celebration itself was called Holka Utsow and it was started in the Vedic era(proto-historic times). These parched grains were used to perform Hawan(a fire ritual). The Vibhuti (sacred ashes) obtained from this ritual was smeared on the forehead of those who participated in the ritual to keep away evil This Vibhuti was called Bhumi Hari and is now called Bhum Hari.

Then came the story of Prahalad which demonstrated how a sinner got burnt in the heat of her own sins. Prahalad was the son of an evil King called Hiranyakashipu.This king tried desperately to destroy this little boy and finally resorted to an evil sister of his.Her name was Holika.

Holika had powers which allowed her to be immune from destruction by fire. The evil king ordered Holika to take Prahalad into a huge fire so that he can be killed.Prahalad's faith in God was such that Holika's powers were reduced to naught and as such,she was burnt to death whilst Prahalad came out unhurt. It is because of this event, that Holika(a bonfire) is burnt yearly to usher in Holi. The burning of the effigy of Holika is called Holika Dahan.

In the days of Emperor Raghu, there was a Rakshasi (demoness)called Dhunda. She used to hide herself and when she saw children alone and unattended, she used to kill them. Acting on the advice of Guru Vashishta, Emperor Raghu made and distributed wooden swords amongst all the children of the kingdom.The children were instructed to make lots of noise and to shout very loudly.This Dhunda could not stand the loud noises and she eventually left and ran away.This happened on the same day that Holika was burnt.

It is also said that Lord Shiva (the Lord of auspiciousness) destroyed Kaam Dev (the Lord of love)on the day Holika was burnt and is called Madan Utsow in southern India. Holi is also called Vasant Utsow (the festival of spring) and the day after the burning of Holika people put ash (Vibhuti) on their forehead and they would mix Chandan (sandalpaste) with the young leaves and flowers of the Mango tree, and they would eat it to promote good health.

A point to note is that contrary to some belief, Phagwa or Holi is NOT a carnival but is a relegious festival which promotes good health. It is interesting to know that the Catholics also has an ash ceremony. It is observed on Ash Wednesday, which is around the same time of the year Holi is celebrated (give or take a few weeks).

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Benefits of Holi or Phagwa to our health system

The celebration of Holi or Phagwa as it is commonly called, commences on the day after Holika is burnt and lasts for about 5 days.It terminates on the day called Rang Panchmi. However, if Rang Panchmi(the 5th lunar day or thithi)finishes in day time,then the Utsow(celebration)finishes on the day before. If it goes on to nightime after the rising of the moon, then all celebrations ends on the day of Rang Panchmi itself.

If Rang Panchmi falls on a Tuesday,that day is called Budhwa Mangal. The mutation period of winter and spring, induces the growth of bacteria in the atmosphere as well as in the body. When Holika is burning and the temperature rises to about 145 degrees F,Parikrima (circumambulation or going around the fire)must be performed. The heat from the fire kills the bacteria in the body thus ,cleansing it.

At this time of the year, people have a tendency to feel sleepy and lazy because it is natural that the body experiences some tardiness due to the change from the cold to the heat in the atmosphere. To counteract this tardiness of the body, people sing loudly or even speak loudly. Their movements are brisk and their music is loud.

All of this helps to rejuvenate the system of the human body. The colours when sprayed on the body have a great impact on it. The liquid dye or Abeer penetrates the body and enters into the pores. It has the effect of strenghtening the ions in the body and adds health and beauty to it. Such is the vastness of this the last festival of the Hindu year.

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Uttar Anchal holi celebrations..spent one holi celebrations amony these lovely folks...

GNIERS...GUESTS...HAPPY HOLI TO ALL CELEBRATING..

Mitwah...jfu...wid deh Hindi...holi aaye...

With an immensely strong bonding with Lord Krishna, people of Mathura and Vrindavan celebrate Holi for over a week. Each major Krishna temple celebrates Holi on a different day.

Of immense interest for the tourist is the celebrations which take place at the famous Bakai-Bihari Temple at Vrindavan. Drenched in the colours of Holi people can be found totally immersed in the spirit of devotion here.

15th Annual Holi Parade: Phagwah in Richmond Hill



The Crowd at the Parade

Holi celebrants douse one another in colored dye and powder, turning the crowd into a color cacophony.

Note the teenager on the left who's about to spray some little kids.

Holi celebrations in Boston

Holi Aaye Kanhai



Mother India (Hindi: भारत माता, Urdu: بھارت ماتا) is a 1957 Bollywood film directed by Mehboob Khan and starring Nargis, Sunil Dutt, Rajendra Kumar and Raj Kumar. The film was Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1958.

The film is a remake of Mehboob Khan's earlier film Aurat (1940). The film was fifth Indo-Russian co-production, and was preceed by Pardesi (1957), also starring Nargis Dutt. In 2005, Indiatimes Movies ranked the movie amongst the Top 25 Must See Bollywood Films.

The film ranked #3 in the list of all-time box office hits.

Awards and Nominations

Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film: Nomination Karlovy Vary International Film Festival
Best Actress: Nargis Dutt
Filmfare Best Movie Award
Filmfare Best Director Award: Mehboob Khan
Filmfare Best Actress Award: Nargis
Filmfare Best Cinematographer Award: Faredoon Irani
Filmfare Best Sound Award: R. Kaushik

Mal De Gulal Mohe

Nehru..Rajk...come on...time fuh dis cyber dance off...any bady in....

Maro Bharkar Pichkari



Chami...IK...weh yuh deh...gettin meh pichkari.. fullin up....

Rang Di Rang

Holi Festival celebrating in Nepal by smearing colors, marking the Fagu festival, also called the festival of colors.

An important festival of the Nepalis, Holi begins on the eighth day of the new moon in the month of Falgun and ends with the burning of the ‘Chir’, which is installed earlier, on the full moon day.

The festival is celebrated in the hilly areas including Kathmandu valley and in the Terai region.

BIRD...JFU...

are ja re hat natkhat

Holi Clasical "Navrang" 1959

C. Ramchandra made Navrang's soundtrack as colourful and grandiose as the movie. There is no Lata Mangeshkar (queen of the fifties as the usual female voice for C.Ramchandra) too be found. Instead C. Ramchandra chose her sister, Asha Bhosle. Her voice on this album is magnificent from beginning to end.

Director: Rajaram Vankudre Shantaram
Writers: G.D. Madgulkar (story)
Screenplay: Rajaram Vankudre Shantaram
Cast (Complete credited cast)
Mahipal ... Divakar
Sandhya ... Jamuna / Mohini
Ulhas
Keshavrao Date
Vatsala Deshmukh
Agha
Vandana
Chandrakant
Baburao Pendharkar

INDIA - Historic Times - Climes - Chimes - VANDE MATARAM

Very Good Job Bahenji RQ; I realy admire your thread after listening to Ustad Manna Dey Song

ai mere pyaare vatan, ai mere bichhare chaman
O my beloved homeland O my distant paradise
tujh pe dil qurabaan
I sacrifice my heart to you
tuu hii merii aarazuu, tuu hii merii aabaruu
You are my cherished desire, You are my honor
tuu hii merii jaan
You are my life

Keep up the good works.

.

quote:

Originally posted by RQ:
Maro Bharkar Pichkari



Chami...IK...weh yuh deh...gettin meh pichkari.. fullin up....

very nice....nostalgia kicks in...
as a young girl and pre-teen...i had one of those...
later into the teens yrs, it seems as if Phagwah jes went away...not as festive or maybe i was not as free to play it like we used to...

quote:

Originally posted by asj:
INDIA - Historic Times - Climes - Chimes - VANDE MATARAM

Very Good Job Bahenji RQ; I realy admire your thread after listening to Ustad Manna Dey Song

ai mere pyaare vatan, ai mere bichhare chaman
O my beloved homeland O my distant paradise
tujh pe dil qurabaan
I sacrifice my heart to you
tuu hii merii aarazuu, tuu hii merii aabaruu
You are my cherished desire, You are my honor
tuu hii merii jaan
You are my life

Keep up the good works.

.

Bhaiya asj...meh think you finally got it now...after Ustadji MD tune...would be nice to post the whole song with trans.. i did post for Republic celeb...but no trans...pls post..n can yuh pin these threads..
India...BM4U..for this week in honour of this age old historical festival...HOLI HAI...

quote:

Originally posted by chameli:

quote:

Originally posted by RQ:
Maro Bharkar Pichkari



Chami...IK...weh yuh deh...gettin meh pichkari.. fullin up....

very nice....nostalgia kicks in...
as a young girl and pre-teen...i had one of those...
later into the teens yrs, it seems as if Phagwah jes went away...not as festive or maybe i was not as free to play it like we used to...

suh u have ur chance now...arite...happy happy RANG HOLI MAST...

Regional Holi Celebrations

India is a vast and diverse land, with people of different caste, creed and religion residing within its boundaries. The country is divided into many regions, which are culturally distinct from each other in so many respects. These geographical regions are known as states and union territories. Apart from observing the national holidays, these regions have their own fairs and festivals that are celebrated by the residents with great zeal.

Moreover, there are a host of other festivals which are celebrated throughout the country, irrespective of the region in which they originated. One such festival is Holi, which is celebrated throughout the expanse of the nation. Though the basic aim and purpose behind the revelry is the same, the ways and means of rejoicing are varied. In different states, the festival is called by different names and is even celebrated on different days.

These regional Holi celebrations are unique in their own way and some of them are even famous beyond their boundaries. The Holi celebrations in Braj Bhoomi, the land of Lord Krishna, are the most spectacular. The enthralling experience of witnessing the enigmatic blend of festivity and divinity is simply awe-inspiring. On the other hand, the pot breaking sport of Maharashtra, the beats of Dhol (musical instrument) in Punjab and the thud of sticks in Uttar Pradesh, together reverberate, to pay homage to the Lord.

Holi in Maharashtra

The festival of Holi is not bound to the boundaries of North India. It is celebrated with great vigor in western parts of the country as well. The people of Maharashtra observe the festival in their unique and grand manner.

Holi in Mathura Vrindavan

Mathura Vrindavan is one of the holiest lands on the face of India. According to mythological records, it is said that Mathura is actually the birth place of Lord Krishna, whereas Vrindavan is the place where he spent the early days of his childhood and left behind tales of mysticism and divinity.

Lathmaar Holi

Lathmaar Holi is celebrated in Barsana, a small village at a distance of about 15 km from Vrindavan. It is known throughout India for its traditional Holi celebrations. No other city in the country can match the grandeur of the festival here, except Mathura Vrindavan.

Holi in Maharashtra

The celebrations on Holi are not bound to the boundaries of North India. The festival is celebrated with great vigor in western parts of the country as well. Unlike people in the north, the festival is celebrated here five days after Phalgun Poornima. On this day, natives play with colors and drench themselves in the spirit of festivity. Bonfires, known as Holika, are burnt to symbolize the victory of good over evil.

Moreover, people rejoice by treating themselves with mouth watering sweets and delicacies. Puran Poli is the famous sweet dish, prepared on the occasion of Holi.The people of Maharashtra observe it in their unique and grand manner. To begin with, Holi is known as Shimga or Ranga Panchmi here. Besides, people also drink sugarcane juice and feed children with watermelons. Holi is also popular amongst the fisher folk of the region. They celebrate the festival by singing, dancing and merry-making. Not to forget, the main attraction of the festival is the pot breaking sport. The sport has roots in the ancient era of lord Krishna.

It is celebrated to commemorate the innocence of Krishna as a child, who used to steal butter from the nearby houses in his village. The revelry of the festival reaches at its peak, when it comes to breaking the pot. Trained groups of youngsters form huge pyramids to break the pot, hung high on the streets. Restricting their access is the constant splashing of water on them, by the women folk. This way Holi has its own charm in this part of the country. (didn't we see this in B'wood movies)

Holi in Mathura Vrindavan

Mathura Vrindavan is one of the holiest lands on the face of India. According to mythological records, it is said that Mathura is actually the birth place of Lord Krishna, whereas Vrindavan is the place where he spent the early days of his childhood and left behind tales of mysticism and divinity. This explains the enigma of Mathura Vrindavan, where one can still feel the divine presence of the Lord. It is for this reason that Holi is celebrated with great zeal here.

Thousands of people visit the place, in search of peace, every year. The Holi celebrations present another reason for the admirers of the Lord to assemble at Mathura Vrindavan. They come to be a part of the colorful amalgamation of festivity and divinity. The main aim behind the festival of Holi is to rejoice in the love and devotion for the Supreme Being. The color and water washes away all the man made distinctions based on caste, creed, etc.

The celebrations of the festival go on for about a week in Mathura Vrindavan. One of the unique features of the festival here is that different temples of Lord Krishna celebrate Holi on different days. It is interesting as well as amazing, to watch devotees at the Banke-Bihari Temple of Vrindavan. The environment is filled with a unique thrill, with people passionately chanting the name of Lord Krishna and Radha.

Radha Krishna Playing Holi in Vrindavan

Mathura Holi celebration - air thick with holi powders

Lathmar Holi

Lathmaar Holi is celebrated in Barsana, a small village at a distance of about 15 km from Vrindavan. It is known throughout India for its traditional Holi celebrations. No other city in the country can match the grandeur of the festival here, except Mathura Vrindavan. Barsana is the birth place of Lord Krishna's beloved and divine consort, Radha, where the Lord used to play pranks on her and Gopis (cowgirls). It is due to this reason why the celebrations of Holi take place with such vigor here.

According to the folklore and mythological tales, Krishna in one of his pranks, applied dark colors on the cheeks of Radha, as she was fairer than him. This initiated the tradition of celebrating Holi not only here but in the whole country. Following the tradition, men from Nandgaon, the place where Krishna spent his childhood and early days, come to play Holi with the women of Barsana. Here, women and girls welcome them not with colors, but with stout sticks.

All this takes place in pursuit of men, trying to put a flag on the temple dedicated to Radha Rani. To stop them from doing so, women beat them hard with sticks. Some of them are even made to wear saris and skirts, all in the spirit of the festival. On the other hand, men, knowing what awaits them, come fully padded, carrying shields to protect themselves. The sight of women beating men is electrifying. The environment echoes with the reverberating sound produced by the stick hammering the shields.
Lathmaar Holi is definitely a hair-raising experience, wherein men patiently face the charged womenfolk. This is considered the sweet revenge women take for the ancient pranks played by Lord Krishna on them.

However, after all the beating is over, the tables turn. It is now the chance for the men to reciprocate. They drench the women with the colors of kesudo (a natural dye) and palash, thereby balancing the deal. At the end of the day, the Holi celebrations at Barsana present an unforgettable life time experience, downed with the spirit of devotion and affection for the Lord.

Men trying to put a flag on the temple dedicated to Radha Rani so to stop them from doing so, women beat them hard with sticks.

Here, women and girls welcome them not with colors, but with stout sticks.

Holi songs known as 'Hori' are sung by the men and women and are mostly based on the
dialogues exchanged between Krishna and Radhika in Barsana.(same gyese moves..)

Men from Nandgaon village, tease women of Barsana village as they sing and dance
to celebrate festival of colors, "Latthmaar Holi" at Barsana, India

holi khelat nandalal

to listen...click on the Holi Khelat Nandalal...i have not found this tune anywhere else...to post the direct link...tried...work..

Chams...IK...meh prem malas...lemme know if it works...arite...


rang lala holi khelat

check another site...luv dis tune...have it..want to share wid all...
tribute to Mathura Raja...Krishna...Holi Celebrations...

holi ke din



Sholay 1975 Hindi Movie
Directed by Ramesh Sippy
Produced by G.P. Sippy
Starring : Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjeev Kumar, Hema Malini, Jaya Bhaduri, Amjad Khan
Release date(s) : August 15, 1975
Country : India
Language : Hindi
Genre : Adventure, Action, Drama, Musical, Romance, Thriller, Comedy

Casting In Sholay 1975 Hindi Movie :
Veeru : Dharmendra
Thakur Baldev Singh : Sanjeev Kumar
Basanti : Hema Malini
Jaidev : Amitabh Bachchan
Radha : Jaya Bhaduri
Gabbar Singh : Amjad Khan

Lyrics of hindi song ‘ Holi ke din dil khil’ from Sholay

Singers : Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar

This song shows the true colors of the festival of Holi. This particular songs depicts the love and freedom a person have on the occassion of this festival. And the evergreen voice of Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar has provided an extra edge to this song.

Cut to a scene of Holi festivities in the village (the spring harvest festival of fertility and licentiousness, and a stock trope in many Hindi films; cf. the similar scene in Mother India); amidst a rain of colored powders and dyes, Veeru and Basanti dance and sing a saucy duet...

Chalo saheli..Chalo saheli
chalo re saathi..chalo re saathi
ye pakdo…..ye pakado..pakado….pakado…

isse na choddo..are are are bainyan na todo
oye tehar ja babhi..are jaa re sharaabi
kya ho raja...gali mein aaja
holi holi gaaon ki gori
o nakhrewaali..dungi main gaali
are raamu ki saali….holi re holi

holi ke din dil khil jaate hain
rangon mein rang mil jaate hain
holi ke din dil khil jaate hain
rangon mein rang mil jaate hain
gile shikwe bhool ke doston
dushman bhi gale mil jaate hain
holi ke din dil khil jaate hain
rangon mein rang mil jaate hain
holi ke din dil khil jaate hain
rangon mein rang mil jaate hain….holi hai

gori tere rang jaisa
thoda sa main rang bana loon
aa tere gulabi gaalon se
thoda sa gulaal chura loon
jare ja deewane tu holi ke bahane tu
jare ja deewane tu holi ke bahane tu
chedd naa mujhe besharam
puch le zamaane se..aise hi bahaane se
liye aur diye dil jaate hain
holi ke din dil khil jaate hain
rangon mein rang mil jaate hain
holi ke din dil khil jaate hain
rangon mein rang mil jaate hain