Wholesale merchants and street vendors at a local market in Kolkata display coloured masks and water guns for children to play with ahead of Holi.
The festival, celebrated on a full moon day, marks the arrival of spring, and will be observed on March 14.
Considered India’s most vibrant and joyous festival, Holi also marks the triumph of good over evil. It is the time when people come together to play with colours and enjoy festive delicacies, strengthening bonds of love and friendship.
The origin of Holi has deep roots in mythology. One legend has it that princess Holika tried to burn her brother Prahlad in a pyre, but she was immolated and he survived, symbolising the power of faith and goodness.
Another involves Lord Krishna and his consort Radha, where Krishna playfully applies colours on Radha’s face, and begins the tradition of Holi as a festival of joy and love.
