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 Holi
Holi (Hindi: ????) or Phagwah (Bhojpuri), is an annual and popular Hindu spring festival. It takes place over two days in the later part of February or early March. As per the Hindu calendar, it falls on the Phalgun Purnima (or Pooranmashi, Full Moon). It is also called the Festival of Colours. In Bangladesh, it is known as Dolyatra (Doljatra) or Boshonto Utshob ("spring festival").
On the first day, a bonfire is lit at night to signify burning Holika. On the second day, known as Dhulandi, people go around until afternoon throwing coloured powder and water at each other, although the powder stings their eyes badly. A special drink is prepared called 'thandai' which can be laced with bhang, which actually contains small amounts of marijuana (Cannabis sativa). People invite each other to their houses for feasts and celebrations later in the evening. Rangapanchami occurs a few days later on a Panchami (fifth day of the full moon), marking the end of festivities involving colours.
Celebration of HoliThis festival occurs at the onset of spring. This period, during which the weather changes, is prone to cause viral fever and cold. Thus, the playful throwing of the coloured powders has a medicinal significance as the coloured powders are made of Neem, Kumkum, Haldi, Bilva, and other medicinal herbs prescribed by Ayurvedic doctors.
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi
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