Bhubaneswar: People of Odisha today celebrated Holi with festive spirit to mark harmony and brotherhood, the theme of the festival of colours.
Also known as “Dola Purnima” or “Basant Utsav” in Odisha, Holi is one of the major festivals celebrated across the country.
The festival was observed with pomp and grandeur by the residents of the twin city of Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, Rourkela, Sambalpur, Berhampur and various other places.
People from across all walks of life irrespective of age, sex and creed celebrated the festival with lot of enthusiasm. Police officials, politicians, cine stars and general public took active part in Holi celebrations across the state. Streets adorned with scenes of people dipped in all kinds of colours.
Holi has a special significance in Hindu tradition. As per mythology, the day is associated with the story that Lord Krishna used to play with colours along with the Gopis and Radha. Holi falls a day after the full moon day of Phalguna month in Hindu calendar. It is also celebrated as a thanksgiving for a good harvest.
Earlier on Thursday night, people celebrated Holika Dahan, a ritual of a bonfire in remembrance of Holika, the sister of the demon king Hiranyakashipu, who was killed in the fire.
Several prominent personalities wished on the occasion of the festival of colours.
"I wish heartfelt greetings to the people of the state on the occasion of Holi. It is a festival of brotherhood and people should celebrate with this spirit. Special arrangements have been made keeping in view of communal issues. I urge everyone to celebrate festivals with peace and brotherhood," DGP RP Sharma said.