What traditional Indian festival of colors was celebrated on March 3-4, 2026?

The traditional Indian festival of colors, celebrated on March 3-4, 2026, was Holi. This vibrant Hindu festival, also known as the "Festival of Colors" or "Festival of Love," marks the arrival of spring and signifies the triumph of good over evil. Celebrated predominantly by Hindus, it is one of the most joyful celebrations in India and around the world, timed around the full moon (Purnima) in the Hindu month of Phalguna, which typically falls in late February or March.

Holi is traditionally celebrated over two days. The festivities begin on the evening of the full moon with Holika Dahan, also known as Chhoti Holi. During this ritual, bonfires are lit to symbolize the burning of the demoness Holika, commemorating the victory of good over evil, as described in ancient Hindu legends. People gather around the bonfires, singing, dancing, and offering grains or sweets into the flames.

The main day of celebration, known as Rangwali Holi, Dhulandi, or Dhulheti, takes place on the day after Holika Dahan. This is when communities come together to playfully throw bright-colored powders, called gulal, and spray colored water on each other. This joyous activity is a time for laughter, connection, and cultural celebration, where societal differences like caste, gender, and age are often disregarded, fostering a sense of unity and new beginnings. Families and friends (Review) also visit each other, exchange sweets and delicacies like gujiya and malpua, and partake in festive foods.