Nithin Pereira
Pics by : Jeevan Dcosta
Udupi, Mar 24: Holi is a festival that has been celebrated since ancient times. The Holi festival is celebrated as a way to welcome in spring, and also is seen as a new beginning where people can release all their inhibitions and start afresh.
Holi is like the festival of colours. Holi usually begins with a bonfire lit on the eve of the main festival day. People gather around the bonfire, perform rituals, and pray for the victory of good over evil. This ritual symbolises the burning of the demoness Holika, signifying the triumph of good over evil.
On the main day of Holi, people gather to play with colours, sing and dance, and enjoy festive foods and drinks. They smear each other with coloured powders called "gulal" and drench each other with coloured water using water guns and balloons. It's a joyful celebration that brings communities together, regardless of age, gender, or social status. Traditional sweets like gujiya and thandai are also enjoyed during this festival.
Venkatesh Nayak, president of a local association, underscores the sacred thread connecting generations through Holi's rituals. "Our forefathers entrusted us with the customs of Holi, shaping our childhood memories and teaching unity," he said.
"Through the distribution of prasada in the days leading up to the festival, we cultivate a sense of shared devotion among villagers," he said.
Acknowledging shifts in tradition, Nayak voices concerns over the younger generation."The evolving landscape poses challenges, with many youth drifting from our cherished practices," he observes. "It's incumbent upon us as elders to reignite their passion and involvement in our rich heritage."
Udaya Nayak, a priest at Shri Durgaparameshwari Temple, underscores the significance of prayer and worship. "As custodians of ancestral legacies in serving, we're tasked with upholding traditions that anchor our identity and I implore devotees to take part in rituals, recognising the divine grace that accompanies sincere devotion."
Ganesh Nayak, a devotee said that we follow our culture that our elders have taught us and also teach the same for the next generations. Many people from different places gather here to worship. Many locals have helped in arranging and preparing for the rituals.
The celebration of Holi in Udupi exemplifies the deep-rooted connection between tradition and community. Despite the challenges posed by modernisation, the festival continues to thrive, upheld by the collective efforts of generations past and present. Through rituals, prayers, and communal gatherings, the spirit of unity and cultural preservation perseveres, ensuring that the vibrant tapestry of heritage endures for future generations to embrace and cherish.
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