Today's Holy-day Art for "HOLI FESTIVAL," a 19th century, watercolor

ALPHA OMEGA ARTS
By Tahlib

Lord Krishna playing Holi with Radha and other Gopis
19th century. Opaque watercolor and gold on paper | Courtesy Smithsonian

Holi is a religious spring festival celebrated by Hindus, and is also known as festival of Colours. It is primarily observed in Nepal, India, and countries with large Hindu populations including the United Kingdom and United States.

• Significance: Remembers the burning to death of demoness, Holika, after she unsuccessfully attempted to burn to death her brother Prahlada (a devotee of Lord Vishnu).
• Observances: Bonfires are lit on the eve of the festival. After which prayers are said and praise is offered.
• Length: 1 day
• Date: Holi is celebrated at the end of the winter season on the last full moon day of the lunar month. In 2012, the date is March 8th.
• Customs: The smearing of coloured powder on each other, and throwing coloured and scented water. It is also called, “Festival of Colors.”
• Artwork: "View more artwork here"