The festival of colors has begun, but I can sense the missing excitement that happens to be around its celebration. The festival celebrates Lord Vishnu (as Narasimha) saving the devotee Prahlad from the demoness Holika, marking the triumph of righteousness. The festival features vibrant colors, bonfires, and social equality, bringing people together for joy and renewal. But this year around the vibe is not matching and festival seems losing its charm.
The traditional, inclusive spirit of gathering with neighbors and community has diminished over the year. I have many fond memories of my childhood celebrstion. From arranging holika dahan a day before the festival to playing with different colors on the day of the festival. We alwsys used to prepare the festival in advance. And honestly speaking there was lot of excitement and enjoyment over the festival. Especially, when the family member cook different dishes to mark the occasion. My mom used to prepare many dishes to celebrste the occasion with the community and neighbours. On the day of holi, we used to had many visitors and to greet them we have many delicies to welcome them.
Today as I am sitting alone, it reminded me of all the fond occasion. It was hell lot of good times that makes the childhood days one of the memorsble and best days of life. Increased urbanization, busier lifestyles, and environmental awareness have replaced traditional, spontaneous, and eco-friendly festivities with more reserved or digital focused interactions. Rather than cooking dishes at home, many people opt to buy goodies and sweets from market. Rather than putting effort in cooking they find the easier way of marking the occasion. Rather than taking part in celebrstion people.are more interested in just showing their appearance. As life becomes faster and more digital, the intense, communal joy often associated with holidays is being replaced by burnout, loneliness, and a sense of disconnection.
I have a big family in my native place, but today everyone is busy in their own life. They are not inclined to enjoy the festival mood. Earlier their used to be a lot of rush during the festival but now my home is an isolated place. Strange how the lifestyle have changed over the years. Hope people take note of it and take corrective measures live life fully.
In good faith - Peace!!
