Tradition, caution & community spirit mark Holika Dahan in city

Indore: The city witnessed widespread Holika Dahan celebrations on Monday evening, as residents gathered across neighbourhoods to mark the ritual symbolising the triumph of good over evil. The focal point remained the historic ceremony at Rajwada, where the centuries old "Sarkari Holi" was observed in keeping with Holkar-era traditions.While the bonfires were lit across the city on Monday, the festival of colours will now be celebrated on March 4, leaving a day's gap after the full moon eclipse.The traditional Holkar-era "Sarkari Holi" was lit first at Rajwada, following a custom that continued for nearly three centuries. A member of the erstwhile Holkar family performed the initial ritual, after which other devotees offered prayers. As per tradition, other neighbourhood committees started their ceremonies only after the Rajwada bonfire was lit. The ceremonial pyre was prepared with cow dung cakes in keeping with the long-standing eco-friendly practice. Priest Leeladhar Warkar of Malhari Martand temple stated that the Holkar-era Holi was always performed in the Pradosh period, preserving continuity with the past.In residential colonies and housing societies, Holika Dahan unfolded in an atmosphere of familiarity and shared tradition. Residents gathered in common gardens, courtyards and crossroads where pyres were prepared. As priests and senior members performed the rituals, children stood close to their parents, watching the flames rise against the evening sky.Many housing associations chose smaller, eco-friendly bonfires made largely of cow dung cakes. Volunteers arranged safety measures, keeping water and sand nearby. "We decided to keep the Holi simple this year and avoid excess wood. It feels good to celebrate responsibly without losing the spirit of the festival," said Ritu Sharma, a resident of a housing complex in Vijay Nagar. Before the lighting of the pyre, several societies organised brief bhajan sessions. Residents offered coconuts and grains to the fire and circled it in prayer. "For us, this is not just a ritual. It is a reminder that good ultimately prevails," said Mahesh Agrawal, a senior citizen from a Palasia colony. "."The gatherings also became an occasion for social warmth. Families exchanged sweets, greeted neighbours and sought blessings from elders. Children listened to the story of Prahlad and Holika, narrated by grandparents seated nearby.