The story of the ogress
The story of ogress Dhundhi is less known. Blessed with indestructibility by Lord Shiva, Dhundhi started misusing her powers on little children whom she devoured. However, she forgot Shiva had also cursed her that prankster boys could pose danger to her. The legend has it that village boys chased Dhundhi away on this day of Phalgun with their laughter, shouts, abuses and pranks. The unruly behaviour of the boys during Holi is said to have its roots in this legend. It also signifies the victory of humility over arrogance.
The Raasleela of Radha-Krishna
The legends surrounding the Raasleela of Radha and Krishna during Holi add a romantic flavour to this colourful festival. And singing the praises of this divine love are the devotees in Mathura and Vrindavan. For these two cities, Holi has a connotation of love for their presiding deity Krishna.
It is said that Krishna once complained to his mother about his dark skin, comparing it to Radha’s milky-white skin. Humouredly, Krishna’s mother told him that he could change Radha’s complexion to a colour of his choice. Delighted by the proposition, Krishna smeared Radha’s face with different colours. Often known as Holi ki Raasleela in northern India, the festival of colours is Dol Purnima or Dol Jatra in West Bengal.
Holi’s popularity may vary, but its message of unity and diversity is smeared across cultures, much like its colours. The legends of Holi are not mere chapters from the Hindu mythology, but are, in fact, tales of love, sacrifice and victory over evil.