While it’s true that we here at Memebase tend to focus on Western culture and holidays, it’s high time we shouted out a very important (and very fun) celebration of those who practice Hinduism: Holi. 

Holi is a colorful festival celebrated in India and some other parts of South Asia, usually in late February or early March. This year the holiday falls on March 8th, 2023. Holi, also known as the “Festival of Colors” or the “Festival of Love,” has roots in Hinduism. The celebration is associated with the legend of Lord Krishna, who is said to have celebrated Holi with his love, the Goddess Radha, and his other devotees. The festivities involved throwing colored powder and water at one another, much like people do now on the second day of Holi.

On the first day, people light bonfires, known as Holika Dahan, to symbolize the burning of the demoness Holika, who tried to kill Prahlad, a devotee of Lord Vishnu. The bonfires are a way to ward off evil and negative energies. On the second day, people gather in public places and homes to play with colors, like Krishna and Radha are said to have done. They pelt one another with pigment, sing, dance, and indulge in a variety of sweets and snacks. The colors used in Holi have symbolic meanings: red for love and fertility, blue for Krishna, green for new beginnings and harvest, yellow for happiness and peace, and pink for friendship.

Though I’ve never celebrated Holi, it’s always seemed like a ton of fun – a day of unrestricted, well-meaning mischief and messes. We’re pretty sure that’s an accurate take, but perhaps we’ll have a better idea after being invited to celebrate for the first time. Hint hint. Anyway, in an effort to celebrate the holiday, we’ve put together some memes about Holi and the shenanigans that come with it. We hope those who celebrate can appreciate them.