Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Thursday night perfomed ‘Holika Dahan’ as part of Holi festival celebrations in Thane. Holika Dahan is a ritual that symbolises the victory of good over evil which involves lighting bonfires, signifying the burning of the demon Holika.
Holi, also known as the “festival of colours”, is one of the most popular festivals celebrated by the Hindu community in India and across the globe with Gulaal (dry colours), flowers and water. It is also known as ‘Basanta Utsav’ as it marks the beginning of spring. The festival which celebrates the eternal love of Radha and Lord Krishna also commemorates the victory of Lord Vishnu in Narasimha Avatara over a demon named Hiranyakashipu. Amidst the revelry, traditional sweets are shared, fostering a sense of community and togetherness