On the occasion of the festival of Holi today, the entire Ram Janmabhoomi complex in Ayodhya was filled with the excitement of the festival of colours as Ram Lalla celebrated His first Holi after the consecration in January.
People from various locations arrived at the temple early in the morning to offer colour to the deity.
The priests in the Ram temple’s garbh griha, or sanctum sanctorium, showered flowers on the idol and played Holi with the Lord. Along with colours or abir and gulaal, they offered 56 types of delicacies to the idol of Ram Lalla.
The priests also joined the devotees in devotional renderings of Holi songs, and the congregation danced before the idol.
Lord Ram’s idol was adorned with flowers, and gulaal was applied to his forehead. Ram Lalla’s idol was dressed in a pink dress with matching jewels.
All the Temples immersed in Holi celebrations
Alongside the Ram temple, the entire temple town of Ayodhya was awash in Holi celebrations. The temples in the city were decked out for the vibrant festival of colours.
Special arrangements were seen at all mutts and ashrams. Other prominent temples, such as Kanak Bhawan, Dashrath Mahal, and Hanuman Garhi, appeared stunning on this occasion. Lord Ram’s father, King Dashrath, resided at the Dashrath Mahal. King Dashrath’s second wife, Queen Kaikayee, had gifted Kanak Mahal to Sita when she arrived in Ayodhya after her marriage to Lord Ram.
How is Holi celebrated
Holi, also known as the Festival of Colours, is a vibrant and joyous celebration in India.
The festivities begin the evening before Holi with Holika Dahan, also known as Choti Holi. On this occasion, bonfires are lit to symbolise the victory of good over evil. People gather around these bonfires, sing and dance, and perform rituals. On the day of Holi, people come together to play with colours.
There is much revelry, and people indulge in delicious sweets and savoury snacks. Music and dance are integral parts of Holi celebrations.
Holi is celebrated at the end of winter annually, on the full moon in March, or Phalguna month in the Hindu calendar. It is played throughout India but is mostly famous in northern regions, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Rajasthan, as well as in other states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and West Bengal, and in major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Jaipur.
Overall, Holi is a colourful and exuberant festival that brings people together to celebrate the arrival of spring, spread joy and happiness, and foster a sense of unity and togetherness within the community.
