Dhuleti Holi, the Hindu festival marked by colors, fun and gaiety, falls on the day after full moon day in the month of Phalgun (February – March). Dhuleti 2023 date is March 8 and is the day when people play with Holi colors. The first day of the festival is the Holika Dahan or lighting of bonfire and it is on March 7. The festival is largely associated with Lord Krishna. It is said that Krishna in his childhood and teenage played Holi with his Gopas and Gopis. Dhuleti Holi celebrations begin on Rang Pashi, three days earlier to Holika Dahan. All family members gather at home; and gulal is sprinkled on all by the eldest family member. Women wear their special Holi dandiya saris. On the Purnima day is the Holika Dahan and bonfires are lit on this day. The bonfires are lit in memory of the miraculous escape that young Prahlad had when Demon Holika carried him into the fire. Holika was burnt but Prahlad, a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu, escaped without any injuries.

Patience cannot be cultivated in isolation. Our capacity for patience and tolerance is tested in daily life situations. True patience is developed only when one has gained some degree of control over one’s anger. If hatred is poison then patience is the antidote.   To develop patience we must have a proper understanding regarding the cause of our stress, frustration, anxiety and anger. It is impossible to succeed without patience and perseverance. Peace is the ultimate benefit of practicing patience. www.hindu-blog.com Abhilash