New Delhi [India], March 15: The festival of colours, Holi, was celebrated across India, coinciding with the Friday prayers (Jumma namaz) during the holy month of Ramzan. Authorities ensured tight security in sensitive areas to monitor any potential antisocial elements, ensuring a peaceful celebration.
This year, Holi was celebrated on March 14, aligning with the second Jumma of Ramzan, which began on March 2 and will conclude with Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of the month-long fasting period. Devotees were seen offering prayers at Delhi’s Jama Masjid, joining in the spirit of peace and unity during this sacred time.
In Sambhal district, Uttar Pradesh, both Holi celebrations and Jumma prayers were carried out peacefully amid strict security measures. Sambhal Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vandana Mishra reported that the processions celebrating Holi were conducted without incident, with strong cooperation from the public, which promoted a message of peace. “Everything happened properly. Peace remains in Sambhal,” she told ANI.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, while attending a Holi Milan event in Gorakhpur, emphasized the significance of India’s unity. Reflecting on the nation’s history, CM Yogi said, “The country has suffered slavery for a long time. It has seen faith being hurt by invaders. However, no one has been able to stop the celebration of festivals like Holi and Diwali. These traditions continue uninterrupted.”
His remarks came amid controversy over claims that the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government in West Bengal had allegedly banned Holi celebrations at Santiniketan’s Sonajhuri Haat. CM Yogi highlighted that India’s unity is crucial for the country’s development, adding that no power in the world could prevent India from becoming a developed nation if its people remain united.
PM Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu also extended their Holi greetings. Prime Minister Modi wished all Indians a “Happy Holi,” expressing that the festival would bring new energy and unity to the nation. “This festival will deepen the colors of unity among the countrymen,” he posted on X. President Murmu added that Holi represents unity, love, and harmony and urged everyone to work toward continuous progress and prosperity.
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi also shared Holi wishes on X, hoping the festival would bring joy and enthusiasm to everyone.
Holi, also known as the Spring Festival, marks the arrival of spring and the harvest season. The celebration, deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, symbolizes the victory of good over evil. The festival begins with Holika Dahan, where a bonfire is lit to mark the death of Holika, symbolizing the destruction of evil.