With the onset of spring, the nation is imbued in all things vibrant and beautiful. With a pleasant transition in weather, we cannot help but celebrate our most favourite spring festival – Holi. Water guns, colours, singing, dancing, and overload of indulgence, Holi in India is an affair to remember. Holi is one of India's most ancient festivals, celebrated in myriad ways across the country. Like Lath Maar Holi in Uttar Pradesh or Doljatra in West Bengal. Irrespective of the manner in which Indians celebrate Holi, one has to agree that one of the most crucial parts of the celebrations is food. A Holi feast is often elaborated and filled with a medley of things that are mostly greasy and good. A day prior to Holi (also known as Chhoti Holi), an important ritual of Holika Dahan is carried out in many parts of the country, where a large bonfire is set up and people gather around it.
(Also Read: 11 Best Holi Recipes | Easy Holi Recipes)
Date of Holi 2020 and Chhoti Holi Time of Holika Dahan:
Holika Dahan on Monday, March 9, 2020
Holika Dahan Mahurat - 06:26 PM to 08:52 PM
Duration - 02 Hours 26 Mins
Rangwali Holi (Dhulandi) on Tuesday, March 10, 2020
(Source: Drikpanchang.com)
(Also Read: Holi 2020: 5 Best Gujiya Recipes)
Significance Of Chhoti Holi, Holika Dahan And Holi
According to ancient Hindu scriptures, Holika was the aunt of Prahlad. Prahlad was a devout follower of Lord Vishnu. His father Hiranyakashyap considered Lord Vishnu as his arch-rival. To kill his own son, he sought the help of his sister Holika who was given a boon to walk out of the fire unscathed. She sat with Prahlad on her lap and set herself ablaze, only this time she actually succumbed to fire and Prahlad was unharmed as he kept chanting Lord Vishnu's name. The Holika dahan ritual is sort of a symbolic recall of the episode. Hindus gather around bon fires that usually take place in parks or temple courtyards. They munch on various snacks like namak pare and shakkar pare whilst the celebrations are on.
(Also Read: A Fully Prepared Holi Lunch Menu For A Memorable Holi Party)
The next day, people wake up early and start prepping for Holi celebrations. They smear each other in colour pigments/gulaal, spray water on each other and enjoy a range of snacks to mark the oncoming of spring. While gujiya and thandai rule the line-up, but there are a variety of savouries that deserve your attention too.
Here Are 5 Holi Snacks You Cannot Afford To Miss During These Celebrations:
1. Namak Pare: These flattened crisps made with maida, atta or sooji, tossed in masalas is an ideal snack to munch into while you are playing Holi. It is deep-fried so make sure you snack in moderation.
2. Dahi Bhalla: Chaat and Holi celebrations share a unique love affair. Sooji balls or dumplings slathered over with yogurt and an array of chutneys, topped with a sprinkle of chaat masala and pomegranate seeds. There, we saw you slurping! Make sure you have your fill this Holi.
3. Dal Kachori: Dal Kachori is a fried puff pastry filled with a mixture of spices and lentils. It is often enjoyed with chutney or fiery potato sabzi. Which pairing do you like the best? Let us know in comments below.
4. Pakora: Pakori or Pakoras are the easiest snacks to make for Holi party. Aloo, paneer, corn, gobhi are some of the popular pakora recipes associated with Holi.
5. Gol Gappa: You saw this coming, didn't you? Crispy wheat or sooji puffed balls filled with spicy mint and coriander water. One does not really need an excuse to binge on gol gappas, but one very fine excuse awaits for you in Holi. Make sure your Holi feast does not miss out on this essential.
Wish all of you a very happy and colourful Holi 2020!
Happy Holi 2020!
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