Holi 2025 celebration begins! From Vrindavan’s temples to border outposts, India immerses itself in colours and unity

Holi has arrived, and India is drenched in hues of joy. From the narrow lanes of Varanasi to the grand temples of Vrindavan, people are stepping out to celebrate the festival of colours.

In Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, devotees have begun traditional celebrations, including the famous Lathmar Holi. The air is thick with clouds of gulal as revellers smear colours on each other. Temples are packed with worshippers, chanting prayers and singing devotional songs.

In Rajasthan’s Jaisalmer, Holi celebrations at Shri Lakshminath Ji temple saw devotees offering prayers and singing bhajans. Speaking to ANI, a local participant shared, “Holi celebrations in Jaisalmer begin from Shri Lakshminath Ji temple. Chaitanya Raj Singh Bhati also takes part in this celebration. The local people celebrate this 'Phaagotsav' together at the temple.”


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The Bonfire of Holika Dahan: Triumph of Good Over Evil

Before the riot of colours begins, many states have started celebrations with Holika Dahan. This ritual bonfire marks the victory of righteousness over evil, symbolising the legend of Prahlad and Holika. As flames rise into the night sky, communities gather to offer prayers, preparing to welcome the joyous celebrations of Holi.

Markets and Homes Abuzz with Festive Spirit

With Holi in full swing, the energy extends to bustling markets. Streets are lined with shops selling pichkaris, vibrant powders, and festive treats. Families are stocking up on gujiya, a sweet dumpling synonymous with the festival.

In Hyderabad, sellers report a surge in demand for colours and toy guns. Satyanarayan Lal, a shopkeeper, told ANI, “There is a huge rush of people coming to buy colours, toy guns, and more. This year, there are many new varieties.”

Ganesh Kumar, a shopper, added, “Holi is celebrated across the country with a lot of excitement. It’s a festival that brings everyone together.”

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Holi at the Borders: BSF Personnel Join the Festivities

Away from their families but not without celebration, BSF personnel stationed along the Indo-Pak border marked Holi with deep camaraderie. Officers and jawans applied colours to one another, shared sweets, and danced joyfully to DJ beats. In a moment of unity, soldiers lifted their officers onto their shoulders while chanting, “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.”

BSF Deputy Commandant Pratap Singh reflected on the occasion, stating, “When the entire nation sleeps peacefully, we stay awake to protect the borders. Today, as the country celebrates Holi, we are here celebrating with our personnel. We are their family, their brothers, and their support system.”

Soldiers from Odisha, West Bengal, and Maharashtra came together to celebrate. A woman jawan expressed, “We stand shoulder to shoulder to protect the nation. This place is our home, and we celebrate Holi with people from different faiths. It fills us with pride that we are safeguarding the country while enjoying the festival together.”

Another soldier added, “We had a better Holi here at the border than we would have at home. We danced, played with colours, and relished sweets sent by the headquarters. Holi is about brotherhood, and here, we celebrate it with friends from all over India.”

BSF DIG Yogendra Singh Rathore echoed this sentiment, saying, “BSF is the first line of defence. We may be away from our families, but these soldiers are our family. We are dancing, singing, and celebrating Holi together.”

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Security Ensured for Peaceful Celebrations

As cities explode with colour and cheer, authorities have deployed security personnel in major areas to ensure a smooth and peaceful celebration. In Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal, where the Shiv Hanuman temple of Khaggu Sarai recently reopened, police have enforced tight security.

The festival is bringing people together in the true spirit of unity. Whether in temples, markets, or even on the nation’s borders, Holi has once again proved to be more than just a festival—it is a celebration of life, colour, and togetherness.West Bengal Minister denies Holi ban at Sonajhuri Haat in Santinikentan, says 'it is a request for environmental safety'Holika Dahan 2025 Timings: There is a Bhadra twist in the shubh muhurat, check auspicious timings before lighting fire today