Holi is a Hindu festival, although non-Hindus are often welcome to join in the festivities. Across India the holiday commemorates a few different events from Hindu mythology. For many Hindus the holiday originates from the god Krishna’s playful games with his beloved Radha. Another mythic origin is found in the story of Prahlada, a demon who worships the god Vishnu. His demon father Hiranyakashipu unsuccessfully attempts to have his sister Holika burn his son, but Holika burns instead. This story is said to be the origin of bonfires that are part of Holi celebrations. For still other Hindus Holi celebrates the story of Shiva’s revival of Kama, after Shiva burned Kama, the god of love, with his third eye.
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