Tag: HOLI

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Lifestyle Lite Blogs

Now it’s time to have post Holi skincare

The rich vitamin content in tomatoes soothes skin sunburns by restoring the dead skin cells…reports N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

Soaking in a variety of colours and indulging in a lot of junk food and dessert during the festival, makes it important to take care of your skin post-Holi. Even if the colours are mild or harsh on your skin there are a few “Gharelu nuskhe” (home remedies) to keep your skin nourished and healthy.

Here are 5 kitchen ingredients that would do wonders to your skin post Holi for a healthy skincare by Neha Kant, Founder, Clovia.

Yoghurt: Yoghurt has been the best for the gut and also for the skin. It comes packed with lactic acid that is known to help dissolve dead skin cells and make way for new cells. It acts as a natural exfoliator that helps you get a natural glow by reducing acne and pimples along with blemishes. Apply yoghurt on your face and neck and massage in a circular motion. Let it stay for 10-15 minutes and wash off with lukewarm water. It gives you the perfect glow, and make your skin feel soft and fresh.

Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has always been considered a healing product and works wonders post holi celebrations. It is recommended to apply topically on the skin as it helps reduce conditions like pimples, blemishes, dry skin. It keeps your skin hydrated and protected from harmful chemicals. Rashes and dryness are a common problem post playing with colours, aloe vera gel will further help to heal the skin gently. It works as a great moisturiser and makes your skin feel soft and smooth. It has anti-inflammatory ingredients Auxin and Gibberellins which have healing properties that reduce skin inflammation and soothe sunburns. Aloe Vera is a great skin product and works majorly for all skin types.

Tomato: Tomato is a rich fruit in terms of nutrition and skincare. Enriched in Vitamin A, C, K, and antioxidants lycopene helps make your skin look toned, radiant and youthful. Tomatoes help in unclogging pores, soothe sunburn and reduce acne. A slice of tomato can work well on dry and irritated skin, post-playing with colours. It makes skin brighter and radiant while reducing pigmentation, dullness, and dark spots. The rich vitamin content in tomatoes soothes skin sunburns by restoring the dead skin cells.

Potato: Potatoes are packed with healthful ingredients like vitamins B1, B3, B6, C, and minerals like potassium, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus. Potatoes can be tagged as an “all-rounder” for all skin issues. It reverses skin tanning and problems like hyper-pigmentation, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, diminishes dark circles and puffy eyes, fights acne, lessens inflammation caused by rashes, ulcers, and other bruises, helps soothe inflamed skin cells, protects skin from environmental damage. Suntan and dark circles are the most common problem faced during holi and with the presence of vitamin C, potassium and other brightening agents’ potatoes help in reducing these.

Papaya: Rich in beta-carotene, Papaya is filled with powerful enzymes and phytochemicals that are great for your skin. A magic nutrient called papain is present in papaya that is said to have skin lightening properties. Scars and pigmentation are the most common issues faced while playing with colours and papaya acts as a miracle ingredient that clears out the same. More than just a delicious fruit, papaya is a source of nutrients with a number of skin benefits. It reduces wrinkles, makes the skin soft and smooth, and helps in controlling acne.

(Clovia has recently stepped into the personal care range (Clovia Botaniqa) by introducing a wide range from face wash, face masks, body wash, hair oils, shampoos, conditioners, body butter, serums, etc. Catering to the multiple needs of women at an affordable price bracket, these products are Ayurvedic and can suit any skin type enriched with natural ingredients.)

ALSO READ-Celebrating Holi in unique ways

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India News News Travel

Celebrating Holi in unique ways

Travel platform Agoda has curated a list of destinations where Holi is celebrated in the most unique ways, so go ahead and get inspired…reports Asian Lite News

Known as a celebration of the victory of good over evil, Holi brings family and friends together as they play with colour and gorge on delicious food. And now, as restrictions have begun to ease, what better way to start travelling than by relishing our own country’s rich heritage. While the festivities occur throughout India, various regions across the country have their own distinct local traditions – a sight to behold. Travel platform Agoda has curated a list of destinations where Holi is celebrated in the most unique ways, so go ahead and get inspired.

Magical shower of flowers

Uttar Pradesh is the place to be to get into the spirit of Holi. Aptly called ‘Phoolon ki Holi’, the celebration goes on for an entire week starting on Ekadashi at the Banke Bihari Temple of Vrindavan where only flowers are used to play Holi. Flowers are splashed across the temple with the aim to connect with Lord Krishna and bring him joy. This celebration is followed by Widows Holi. Traditionally, widows are told to strictly wear white after their husband’s departure. However, on this day, the widows get together to play Holi and break the rules of the previous tradition. Continuing with the festivities, kids are dressed as Radha and Krishna and the people of Vrindavan and Mathura get onto the roads to colour the streets, temples, and ghats in rainbows. The famous Lathmar Holi is also celebrated where women playfully beat men with lathis (wooden sticks) in the towns of Barsana and Nandgaon of Uttar Pradesh.

While in Uttar Pradesh, travellers can choose from a host of Agoda accommodations to stay at: Resort Krishna Vaibhav; Nidhivan Sarovar Portico

Hola Mohalla celebrations in Punjab

In Punjab, Holi is celebrated to honour the bravery of a particular sect of Sikh warriors, ‘Nihang Sikh’ and is known as Hola Mohalla or Hola in this region. The festival includes a profound display of martial arts, horse-riding, and reciting poetry. The participants perform daring feats, such as Gatka (mock encounters with real weapons), tent pegging, bareback horse-riding, standing erect on two speeding horses and various other feats of bravery. This is later followed by music, dance, and colour. The fair is held for three days and ends on the day of Hola with a long military-style procession.

While in Punjab, travellers can choose from hundreds of different places ideal for couple or family retreats. Check out Radisson RED Chandigarh Mohali; Hotel temple view inn

Uttarakhand’s Kumaoni Holi

Celebrated in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Kumaoni Holi not only signifies the victory of good over evil but also the start of the sowing season for the farming community. The festivities are more of a musical affair than of colours in this region. There are three forms of celebrations based on musical gatherings of Holiyars (the singers of Holi songs) that start from Basant Panchami and last for almost two months.

Baithaki Holi – Seated gatherings held for two months where holidays sing traditional classical songs to the tunes of harmoniums and tablas with a heavy influence of Kumaoni folk music traditions.

Khadi Holi – People sing, play instruments like dhol, joda (metal instrument), and Hurka, and dance in groups wearing white nokdaar topi, churidar payajama, and kurta.

Mahila Holi – These are exclusive gatherings for women and is similar to Baithaki Holi

Agoda has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets in Kumaon Travellers can choose from: Himalayan Village Sonapani; Lakeside Inn

Basant Utsav in West Bengal

Rabindranath Tagore started the tradition of Basant Utsav at Shantiniketan to mark the beginning of the spring season. Now an integral part of the Bengali culture, the three-day-long folk festival is organised in the Purulia district of West Bengal. Festivities include folk songs and unique folk art exhibitions. Folk dance performances such as Chau, Darbari Jhumur, and Natua are treats for the viewers’ eyes. Owing to its own dignity, the festival lures visitors from all over the world.

Choose to stay in hotels, B&Bs, or resorts in West Bengal: PearlTree Hotels & Resorts; Fortune Park Pushpanjali.

ALSO READ: ‘Bachchan Pandey’ will be a ‘Holi’ gift

Manipur’s Yaoshang

Holi is celebrated as Yaoshang festival in Manipur and is the most important festival of the state. The celebration continues for six days starting from the full moon day in Phalguna with the burning of ‘yaoshang’ that is constructed with bamboo and straws followed by singing, dancing, and other traditional performances by the residents of Manipur. The main highlight of the festival is Thabal Chongba dance or “Moonlight dance.” The participants perform the dance with songs to the rhythm of the Dholakar (drum) at night.

Travellers can find a host of places to stay with great value deals: Shalom Farmhouse by the hillside Classic Grande Imphal, a member of Radisson Indiviuals; The Classic Hotel

Gair in Rajasthan during Royal Holi

Holi at Udaipur in Rajasthan is a royal affair, and the city is famed for its grand celebration. Spread across two days, the royal family takes active participation in all the functions. When visiting Udaipur during this time of the year, expect to be enthralled by the enchanting festivities. Known as Mewar Holika Dahan, the bonfire takes place on the grounds of City Palace and continues with the traditional folk dance, Gair. There is a rally where the royal family members sit on ornate camels, elephants, and horses, followed by cocktails and dinner at the royal palace. The next day, tourists and locals rejoice and play Holi throughout the city.

While in Udaipur, travellers can choose from a host of Agoda accommodation to stay at including: The Oberoi Udaivilas Udaipur Hotel; Fateh Prakash Palace – Heritage Grand; Aurika Udaipur – Luxury by Lemon Tree Hotels

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Fashion Lite Blogs

Let’s talk ‘Holi fashion’ of vibrant colours

Choose a light, loose-fitting cotton kurta and pair it with your favourite denim. To look more rooted, you don’t have to go overboard and wear a full set of kurta-pyjama…reports Sakshi Srivastava

It is a time to celebrate life with vibrant colours, copious amounts of food, and, of course, gujiyas. Holi also heralds the start of spring and summer fashion trends for men and women alike. However, we all know that when it comes to men’s clothing, the options can be quite limited. If you haven’t decided what to wear yet, Sakshi Shrivastava – Senior Fashion Designer – DaMENSCH recommends the ultimate style guide for men to look their best this holiday season.

The Anything but White Look

Since the beginning of time, a white outfit has been the preferred look for Holi. However, it is not always a good idea because colour hues can leave a permanent mark on white outfits, rendering them unwearable in the future. If you don’t want to ruin a perfectly good white t-shirt or kurta, opt for colourful, loose-fitted, and comfortable cotton outfits for a daytime or evening party.

The Classic Casual Look

You can never go wrong with a cotton shirt or t-shirt paired with dark denims. You can experiment with floral print shirts and botanical patterns to look effortlessly festive. For a more relaxed and laid-back look, opt for a basic t-shirt or a multicolor tie and dye t-shirt.

The Fusion Look

Choose a light, loose-fitting cotton kurta and pair it with your favourite denim. To look more rooted, you don’t have to go overboard and wear a full set of kurta-pyjama. The kurta and denim combination will add just the right amount of traditional flair to your outfit for this festival.

The Chill-Vibe Look

A pair of day shorts paired with a cotton vest is one of the simplest outfit combinations. It’s the ideal look for lounging around the house on Holi. Throw on a loose pair of joggers or pyjamas and slip-on shoes, and you’re ready to go grab a bite with friends and family while looking your quirky best.

The Pool Party Look

If you’ve been invited to the coolest pool party in town this Holi, here’s what you should wear. Pair chino shorts with a brightly coloured polo t-shirt. You’d definitely give all the single ladies at the party a golfer-by-day, party animal-by-night vibe.

The Master Of Accessories Look

Use accessories like hats or bandanas to add a fun little twist to your Holi look. It will not only add a splash of colour to your outfit, but it will also protect your eyes, skin, and hair from harmful chemicals. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes because there will be a lot of dancing. Finally, remember to apply sunscreen and wear your favourite sunglasses. An eye accessory will not only make you look fashionable, but it will also protect you from the sweltering heat.

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Bollywood Films Lite Blogs

‘Bachchan Pandey’ will be a ‘Holi’ gift


The posters have a grungy feel with earthy colours and tones dominating the frame, they show Akshay’s character as a desi gangster. …reports Asian Lite News

‘Bachchan Pandey’ starring Akshay Kumar and Kriti Sanon has a new release date as it is set to arrive in cinemas on the occasion of Holi on March 18 this year.

The film, which is the first big festival release of 2022, has been helmed by writer-director Farhad Samji, who has films like ‘Housefull 3’, ‘Housefull 4’, ‘Singham’ (screenwriter) under his belt.

Akshay took to his Instagram to share a set of the film’s posters as he wrote in the caption, “Action, Comedy, Romance, Drama. L-O-A-D-I-N-G this Holi! #SajidNadiadwala’s #BachchanPandey in cinemas on 18th March, 2022 Directed by @farhadsamji”

The posters have a grungy feel with earthy colours and tones dominating the frame, they show Akshay’s character as a desi gangster. While one poster features Akshay seated on a truck pointing gun at the sky along with a group of people, the other one sees the superstar in a rugged avatar, sporting chains around his neck and a bag loaded with guns and weapons.

In addition, the film also stars Jacqueline Fernandez, Arshad Warsi and Pankaj Tripathi and has been produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and Warda Khan Nadiadwala.

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Events Lite Blogs

Celebrate Holi, Have Benefits

Colours, as we all know, are vital for a healthy body. While immersed in the vibrant colours of Holi, our mind and body experience myriads of benefits…writes N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe.

A festival celebrated joyously all over India Holi is a day of colours, where people of all ages and ethnicities have fun dousing each other in dyes and coloured water. Holi festival is based on one of the famous legends of killing evil demoness Holika. Another one of the famous legends is the one Lord Krishna complaining to mother Yashodha about Radha being fairer as compared to him. Mother Yashodha suggests that Krishna should colour Radha, in the colour of his choice. The mischievous Krishna is said to have coloured his beloved in a hue of colours thereafter. A tradition that is thereby we have been following.

People celebrating Holi (Pallav Paliwal)

Associated with the colour white, Holi symbolizes the end of one phase and the beginning of a new tomorrow. As Holi nears us, we celebrate the return of colours on the trees, in the sunsets, the arrival of spring, the end of winter. Holi stresses the need to get rid of the impassive winters, long nights and dry skin and lackluster hair. Interestingly, traditional Holi ritual and customs step in as the perfect body-rejuvenation therapy.

Holi Celebration (Pallav Paliwal)

Colours and the mind

Colours, as we all know, are vital for a healthy body. While immersed in the vibrant colours of Holi, our mind and body experience myriads of benefits. Bright colours like red tend to stimulate the heartbeat & breathing. Colours like Yellow and Blue don’t just bring in a calming effect on our senses but also surround us with a sense of joy and happiness.

Advantages of Holika Dhahan

Holi, like many other festivals, falls on the cusp of winters and spring. This season also exposes us to a number of bacteria and pollution in the air around us. The mutation period of winter and spring induces the growth of bacteria in the atmosphere as well as in the body Hence, the burning of Holika, the day before Holi, where many lights a bonfire that symbolizes the burning of evil, follows the tradition of walking around the fire deodorizing our environment and cleansing the body from the bacteria.

Natural and organic colours

Traditionally the Holi colours were created with naturally helpful ingredients like hibiscus flowers, henna leaves, Kesar, sandalwood and more. These natural colours are not just good for your skin, hair and eyes but even cleanse and clear the dead skin. Ingredients such as these are used in Ayurveda for rejuvenating the body and giving it a healthy glow. Red colour is energizing and stimulate heart functions and breathing. Yellow has a soothing effect on organs especially the intestines and blue has a calming and tranquilizing effect on our body and senses.

Cool, energizing drinks

Wake up from our chilling winter slumber, our body needs more than just a cold shower. Renowned Holi drinks like Thandai and Kaanji act as great coolants and are an excellent source of anti-oxidants. Thandai, comprising of delicious milk flavour, has the goodness of almonds, watermelon seeds, fennel seeds and rose petals. While Kaanji, a traditional North Indian drink is fermented and packed with rich nutrients and fibre.

The festival of Holi also promotes good health in the southern regions of India. The morning after the burning of Holika, people put ash (Vibhuti) on their forehead. Along with that, they also mix Chandan (sandalwood paste) with the leaves and flowers from the Mango tree and consume it.

Also Read-No Holi celebrations in public places

Read More-PICS: Celebration of Colours

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Events Lite Blogs

PICS: Celebration of Colours

Holi Celebrations at Mathura and Bersana. (Pallav Paliwal)

A cute little girl amid the Holi celebrations in Mathura.
Without keeping any social distancing around 5 lakh people gathered in Bersana town.
People amid the Holi celebrations which was funded by the govt.
As per the police reports, last year celebrations led to the spread of corona virus.
An amount of 60 Lakh was provided for the celebrations to boost tourism.
Hundreds of men and women play lathmar holi in Bersana. 
Barsana in Mathura is special
Celebrations started in Mathura and Vrindavan
Celebrations popularly known as Braj Ki Holi.
Braj is the land of Lord Krishna and Radha
Celebrations are not a single day event, but lasts for at least for a week.
As per the records the number of people gathered in Mathura is more than the previous year count.
Men and women who come here for celebrations dress up like Gops and Gopis.
Gopis hit Gops playfully ‘hit’ the men and also play with colours.
They happily sing and dance together in the Holi days.
Women beat men with sticks as part of ‘Lathmar Holi’ celebrations in Barsana, remembering Radha and Krishna.

Also Read-Holi Returns to Jammu & Kashmir

Read More-No Holi celebrations in public places

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Events India News News

No Holi celebrations in public places

It anticipated that gathering, congregations, and public celebration during upcoming festivals like Holi, Shab-e-Barat, Navaratri etc…reports Asian Lite News.

Even most of the daily routines of life have come back to normal, restrictions continue as of now great decline is not visible in the number of Covid cases. Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has directed that public celebration and gathering, congregation during upcoming festivals such as Holi, Shab-e-Barat, Navratri etc. will not be allowed in public places, including parks, markets, religious places. An order in this regard has been issued by Delhi Chief Secretary.

The decision has come hours after Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal, who is also chairperson of DDMA, held a review meeting on increasing Covid-19 cases in the national capital on Monday.

“Situation of the Covid-19 in Delhi has been reviewed and it has been observed that a persistent rise in COVID -19 cases in NCT of Delhi during the last fort night. It anticipated that gathering, congregations, and public celebration during upcoming festivals like Holi, Shab-e-Barat, Navaratri etc. may pose a considerable threat of spread of virus and may cause setback to the appreciable gain made in the suppression of chain of transmission of Covid-19 cases in Delhi.

Considering this it has been decided that public celebration and all gatherings/ during upcoming festivals will not be allowed in public places,” an order issued by Delhi Chief Secretary Vijay Dev read.

On Tuesday, Delhi saw its daily Covid tally rise sharply to 1,101, as against 888 on Monday, while there were four more deaths reported.

According to the Delhi health bulletin, 620 patients were reported to have recovered from the infection, while the total active cases in the city stands at 4,411 on Tuesday.

The positivity rate was 1.31 per cent, while the cumulative positive rate went up to 4.65 per cent, and cumulative cases to 6,49,973.

A total of 84,237 samples were tested in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of tests conducted in the city to 13,974,132.

Artists perform at famous Govind Dev Mandir during the ongoing Holi festival,in Jaipur ,March 23,2021 .(Photos: Pallav Paliwal)

Also Read-Pakistan Calls Off Baisakhi Celebrations

Read More-Holi Returns to Jammu & Kashmir