Pic by Umesh Verma, Senior Lensman Moonlight Dharampeth
With lots of ristrictions due to COVID-19, Holika dahan (bonfires) for the first time was celebrated in simple manner with people following the Covid SOPs.
Holika Dahan also Kamudu pyre is celebrated by burning Holika, an asura. For many traditions in Hinduism, Holi celebrates the killing of Holika in order to save Prahlad, a devotee of God Vishnu and thus Holi gets its name. During Holika dahan the onlookers put wads of cow dung and sticks in the bonfire. And pray for the peace and good health of thier loved ones.
As the flames rise high against a darkening sky it is believed that the flames take away all the negative vibes, cleanse and purify the environment around us.
This year people prayed for the eradication of the deadly coronavirus from the globe.