History of Holi in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 21, 2025

Holi is a major Hindu festival known as the "Festival of Colours, Love, and Spring." Primarily celebrated in the Indian subcontinent, it has also spread globally through the Indian diaspora. The festival commemorates the divine love between Radha and Krishna, symbolizing the victory of good over evil, specifically Vishnu's triumph over Hiranyakashipu. Celebrations involve the throwing of colored powders and water, signifying joy, love, and the welcoming of the spring season.

1910: Holi Spelling in Oxford English Dictionary

By 1910, editions of the Oxford English Dictionary recognized "Holi" as the standard spelling of the festival, following earlier variations like Houly, Hooly, Huli, Hohlee, and Hoolee.

1929: Holi-fools Custom in Punjab

In 1929, Bose noted in "Cultural Anthropology: And Other Essays" that the custom of playing Holi-fools was prevalent in Punjab during Holi.

1947: Holi was not a public holiday in Pakistan

From 1947 to 2016, Holi was not a public holiday in Pakistan.

1961: Wrestling matches during Holi in Punjab

In 1961, Bose stated that in some parts of Punjab, Holi is celebrated with wrestling matches.

1993: Holi Fairs in Punjab

Self observed in 1993 that Holi fairs are held in Punjab and may last for several days.

2000: Sekhon's description of Holi celebrations in Punjab

In 2000, Sekhon observed that in Punjab, people begin throwing colors many days before the actual Holi festival.

2007: Study on Malachite Green Eye Irritation

A 2007 study found that malachite green, a synthetic dye used in some Holi colors, caused severe eye irritation in Delhi if eyes were not washed upon exposure.

2009: Study on Metal-Based Industrial Dyes in Holi Colors

In 2009, a study reported that some Holi colors produced and sold in India contained metal-based industrial dyes, leading to skin problems. These colors lacked quality checks and proper labeling.

2016: Holi Adopted as Public Holiday in Pakistan

In 2016, Pakistan's parliament adopted a resolution to recognize Holi, along with Diwali and Easter, as a public holiday, granting local governments and public institutions the right to declare it a holiday for minority communities.