Discover Holi festival in Goa, an incredible Hindu spring-time celebration, also known as the festival of colours...
When and what is the Holi festival all about?
Holi takes place in Goa, over a few days in March (the date varies), as it's the last full moon of the Hindu lunar month, Phalguna. The festival itself dates back as far as the 4th century and is predominantly the celebration of good conquering evil, but it is also a celebration to mark the end of winter, the beginning of spring, and the harvest, as well as, love and fertility. For many it is a festive day to meet with friends and family, laugh and play, and even mend broken relationships.
©Tim Gainey | Alamy Stock Photo
Holi takes its origins from Indian mythology, namely the legend of Krishna and Radha. As the tale goes, the supreme god Krishna fell in love with the goddess Radha. Krishna was concerned about the difference in their skin colour, as he was blue, so his mother suggested he playfully paint her face to overcome their differences. This painting is still done today, with many friends and families painting their faces the same colour before they go out and enjoy the festivities.
Above: an illustration of Krishna and Radha. Image credit: Miriama Taneckova | Shutterstock
Image credit: Alexander Mazurkevich | Shutterstock
Holi is celebrated all over India, and in Goa, you'll find the most exuberant festivities at the temples in the south of the state. The coloured paint and water that's used during the event usually adopt four main colours (although you'll find plenty of others too): green; symbolising the beginning of spring, blue; the colour of Krishna, red; for love and fertility and yellow; the colour of turmeric. People spend the day smearing the coloured powder all over each other's faces, throwing coloured water at each other, having parties, and dancing under water sprinklers.
Image credit: India Picture | Shutterstock
One of the best things about Holi festival is that everyone is invited to join in, whether of Hindu faith or not.
Although Holi celebrations are enjoyed worldwide, there's nothing quite like being in the country where it all started, especially seeing as March is a fantastic time to visit Goa...
Our top places to stay in Goa
Surrounded by lush rice paddies and coconut palms, this beautiful Balinese-style property in South Goa is a fantastic choice for holidaymakers. The infinity pool overlooking the rice paddies is the perfect place to relax, and just a short walk away you'll find the soft white sands of Majorda Beach. If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, why not try one of the hotel's 'experiences'? You could enjoy a cooking masterclass, or perhaps a candlelit dinner in a tree house is more to your taste.
Beautiful grounds dotted with palm trees, unrivalled facilities and a beautiful beach on the doorstep; are just some of the reasons why a holiday at the Taj Exotica is memorable. Relax in the spa, enjoy the multitude of cuisines, play golf, and rent bicycles - the choice is yours! Plus, all of this comes with exceptional service and five-star quality for which the Taj group are well known.
If you'd like to know more about a holiday to Goa during March, visit our website, or give our sales team a call on 01489 866986.
