KATHMANDU: The festival of colors, Holi, is being celebrated with great enthusiasm across the Terai districts today. In keeping with tradition, Holi is observed in the plains a day after Fagu Purnima is celebrated in the Himalayan and hilly regions.
The festival is being marked in districts including Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Sustapur), Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Sustapaschim), Jhapa, Morang, Sunsari, Saptari, Siraha, Udayapur, Dhanusha, Mahottari, Sarlahi, Rautahat, Bara, Parsa, Rupandehi, Kapilvastu, Dang, Banke, Bardiya, Kailali, and Kanchanpur.
Holi holds special significance in Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Sustapur), where Magar and Tharu communities are densely settled. The festival symbolizes joy, unity, and harmony, bringing people together by setting aside differences and celebrating with colors.
Pandit Trilochan Bhurtel said Holi, which colors everyone alike, serves as an inspiration for equality and social harmony. “As a symbol of the victory of truth over falsehood and good over evil, Holi strengthens unity in diversity,” he said, adding that the festival carries both religious and social importance.
Historically established as a spring festival, Holi is associated with figures such as Prahlad, Krishna, Holika, and Dhundha. Over time, it has evolved into a vibrant celebration featuring music, dancing, festive foods, and the exchange of colors, fostering brotherhood and goodwill.
While Monday was declared a public holiday in the hilly districts, today is a public holiday in the Terai region. Superintendent of Police Yubaraj Khadka of the District Police Office said a special security plan has been implemented in Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Sustapur) to ensure a safe and dignified celebration.
He warned that action will be taken against those who apply colors without consent, throw lola (water balloons), create unnecessary disturbances, or engage in indecent behavior.
He also urged people to celebrate responsibly, avoid playing Holi with strangers, refrain from using harmful chemical colors, do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, strictly follow traffic rules, and immediately contact the police hotline (100) in case of any untoward incident.
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