The vibrant festival of colours, Holi, and the sacred Jumma namaz (Friday prayers) were celebrated peacefully across the country, showcasing a spirit of unity and harmony. Authorities took measures to fortify sensitive areas and monitor antisocial elements to ensure the celebrations remained safe and peaceful.
This year, Holi was observed on March 14, coinciding with the Friday prayers during the holy month of Ramzan. In Delhi, devotees gathered at the historic Jama Masjid to offer prayers on the second Jumma of Ramzan, which began on March 2 and will conclude with Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of the month-long fasting period.
In Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal district, both Holi celebrations and Friday prayers took place without any disruptions amid tight security. The Shahi Jama Masjid hosted peaceful prayers, while festive processions filled the streets with colours and joy. Sambhal Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vandana Mishra praised the community’s cooperation, highlighting the message of peace that emerged from the celebrations.
“Along with Holi, the Jumma namaz was performed peacefully. We managed to celebrate both events harmoniously. The processions were peaceful, and everyone cooperated, sending a strong message that peace prevails in Sambhal. Security forces were deployed to manage the crowd and maintain order, and everything went smoothly,” SDM Mishra told ANI.
In Gorakhpur, after attending a Holi Milan program, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reflected on the nation’s historical struggles and resilience. He emphasized the importance of preserving cultural traditions and the significance of unity in national development.
“The country has suffered slavery for hundreds of years and has seen its faith attacked by invaders. Despite attempts to suppress festivals like Holi and Diwali, these traditions continue uninterrupted. Our unity will ensure India’s progress, and no external force can stop a united India from becoming a developed nation,” CM Yogi stated.
His remarks followed a controversy sparked by West Bengal Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari’s claim that the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government had reportedly banned Holi celebrations at Santiniketan’s Sonajhuri Haat.
CM Yogi further stressed the need for national unity, asserting that a united India would be unstoppable in its pursuit of development. “Sanatan Dharma proclaims that where there is Dharma, there will be victory. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given a vision of a developed India, and unity is key to achieving that goal,” he added.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greetings on the occasion, expressing hope that the festival would inspire joy, enthusiasm, and unity among the people. “I wish you all a very Happy Holi. This festival, filled with joy and happiness, will infuse new energy into everyone’s life and deepen the colours of unity among the countrymen,” PM Modi posted on X.
President Droupadi Murmu also conveyed her best wishes, calling Holi a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage and a message of unity, love, and harmony. “On this auspicious occasion, let us all pledge to fill the lives of all the children of Mother India with the colours of continuous progress, prosperity, and happiness,” President Murmu wrote on X.
Congress MP and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi joined in the celebrations, sharing his wishes on his official X handle. “Heartiest greetings to all of you on the holy festival of Holi. May this festival of colours bring new enthusiasm, new excitement, and lots of happiness into your lives,” he posted.
Holi, also known as the Spring Festival, marks the arrival of spring and the harvest season. Deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, the festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. The celebrations begin with Holika Dahan, where a bonfire is lit to commemorate the victory of good over evil, followed by special prayers to dispel negative forces and welcome positivity.
