Theme 4B : Holi Flashcards
What is the story of Holika and Prahlad?
Hiranyakasipu, king of demons wanted everyone to worship him, but his son, Prahlad refused to and continued to worship Vishnu. Holika, the kings sister had a power of being immune to fire so after failed attempts to kill Prahlad she walked into fire with him. However he survived as the Lord Vishnu had saved him and Holika was left a pile of ash on the ground.
What is Holi?
Holi - Festival of colours.
Usually around springtime, lasts 2 days and usually is around the end of march or beginning of April.
What is the story of Krishna and Radha?
Krishna and Radha grew up best friends in Vrindavan and eventually became lovers. They had to hide this love as Radha was married. Krishna had to leave Vrindavan to fulfil his dharma, meaning he also left Radha. Radha waited patiently for Krishna until he had successfully done his dharma and became king to be worshipped as lord of the universe. Eventually Krishna got married, had children and fought the Great War of Ayodhya yet Radha still waited.
It is said that Radha’s love for Krishna was so divine the Radha obtained the status of a deity. Many say Krishna’s images are incomplete without Radha.
What is the story of Krishna and Radha?
Krishna and Radha grew up best friends in Vrindavan and eventually became lovers. They had to hide this love as Radha was married. Krishna had to leave Vrindavan to fulfil his dharma, meaning he also left Radha. Radha waited patiently for Krishna until he had successfully done his dharma and became king to be worshipped as lord of the universe. Eventually Krishna got married, had children and fought the Great War of Ayodhya yet Radha still waited.
It is said that Radha’s love for Krishna was so divine the Radha obtained the status of a deity. Many say Krishna’s images are incomplete without Radha.
How do people remember Krishna and Radha when celebrating Holi?
Krishna used to play tricks on the Gopis and throw coloured powder, this still happens in the present day during Holi. People carry images of Krishna and Radha around the streets.
How do people remember Holika when celebrating Holi?
They burn Holika on a massive fire.
Whats the role of the community in ensuring festival is maintained?
3 pillars of Hinduism ~ worship at home and the temple, scripture and guru-disciple tradition.
Temples are God’s abode, they have a duty to visit and celebrate. This helps them achieve Moksha.
It is the householder stages ashrama to teach children religion.
Gurus personally look after spiritual practices and progress of devotees.
What does Holi symbolise?
Holi symbolises good overcoming evil, traditional roles are turned upside down and regular rules are loosened.
