Holika Dahan: Holi is one of the most widely celebrated rituals all across India. People, irrespective of their religions, age and socio-economic backgrounds participate in this colourful festival. Holika Dahan is performed at the first night of Holi during Purnima. It is believed that Holika, the mythological demon is burnt in the form of a pyre which puts an end to all destruction caused by the evil forces. Holika Dahan is also performed with a lot of enthusiasm and vigour at Kolkata. Many people gather around the fire and perform various rituals and prayers before finally setting it on fire.
These photographs were taken at a North Kolkata Lane, almost from the same vantage point with different compositions.
Images & text – Deb Lahiri
Copyright of all images in this album is held by the photographer.
