Vrindavan's Widows Celebration During Holi: All You Need To Know About The Special Holi
Vrindavan's Widows Holi 2024: Holi, known as the festival of colours, love, and enjoyment, is deeply intertwined with rich Indian mythological narratives. Among the myriad celebrations across India, Holi in Braj, particularly in Vrindavan, holds historical significance and stands out as one of the most renowned festivals. Braj encompasses the historical region comprising Mathura, Vrindavan, and surrounding areas. Mathura, revered as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, and Vrindavan, where he spent his childhood, are central to the festivities. Braj is steeped in historical significance as the sacred site where Lord Krishna performed the Raslila, a divine dance portraying the enchanting romance between Lord Krishna and Radha.
There's a mythological tale associated with Holi. According to legend, when Lord Krishna was young, he expressed his concern to his mother about his dark complexion compared to Radha's fair skin. In response, his mother suggested that he apply colour to Radha and her friends, ensuring that their complexions would no longer differ. Following this advice, Lord Krishna and his companions applied colours to Radha and her friends, thus initiating the beloved festival of colours symbolising known as "Holi."
Breaking away from oppressive traditions
For decades, draped in white sarees and isolated from mainstream society, these women endured hardship. Abandoned by their families, they were left to live lives of obscurity and poverty. Following the abolition of the horrendous practice of widows throwing themselves on their husband's funeral pyres (Sati), Vrindavan became a refuge for them. Despite residing in severe poverty, these women faced societal stigma and were shunned, with even their shadows considered ill omens. The temple-packed town of Krishna is now also known as The City of Widows.
Nearly 6,000 widows, primarily from Bengal, were discovered begging on the streets, lying on temple staircases, or squatting in dirty lanes, begging for food. Besides facing various other hardships, widows were also barred from participating in festivities during Holi and Diwali. In 2012, the Supreme Court of India scrutinised the efforts of agencies and the government following a PIL filed by the National Legal Services Authority Charity. As a result of a directive from the Supreme Court, NALSA enlisted the help of Sulabh International to provide relief and support to the widows. Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, upon witnessing the dire conditions of the widows during his visit to the holy town, was deeply moved and took action. He not only offered financial assistance but also devised a comprehensive program to uplift them. However, it was his bold reform initiative that garnered the most attention.
Connection Between Holi and Widows of Vrindavan
After decades of obscurity, Sulabh International, a non-governmental organisation, is dedicated to empowering and integrating widows in Vrindavan into mainstream society. As part of this mission, Sulabh International arranges a special Holi celebration for widows at Gopinath Temple in Vrindavan. The event aims to promote social acceptance and respect for widows in the community while also providing them with a day of happiness and enjoyment.
According to PTI reports, the tradition of widows celebrating the festival of colours amongst themselves began only in 2013, prior to which they were only permitted to play Holi with Thakurji (Lord Krishna). Since then, there has been no turning back as the number of widows participating in the festivities, along with the colours and flower petals, has steadily increased. Later that same year, a new chapter was written for the widows as the shelter houses were illuminated for Diwali for the first time in history. The warm glow of lights and fireworks symbolised their triumphant departure from the confines of dogma. All five widow ashrams in Vrindavan were illuminated with joy, signaling the end of decades of darkness and social neglect.
Sulabh International, a non-governmental organisation, is dedicated to empowering and integrating widows in Vrindavan into mainstream society. As part of this mission, Sulabh International arranges a special Holi celebration for widows at Gopinath Temple in Vrindavan. The event aims to promote social acceptance and respect for widows in the community while also providing them with a day of happiness and enjoyment.
From Isolation to Celebration
On Vrindavan's Widow Holi, hundreds of widows gather at the Gopinath Temple complex to partake in the festivities. They engage in playful Holi celebrations, smearing each other with Gulal (coloured powder) and showering flower petals. The widows joyously dance, sing bhajans (devotional songs) of Lord Krishna, and exchange laughter, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with colours and music. This experience of witnessing widows dancing and enjoying themselves is truly remarkable, offering a glimpse of brightness in their otherwise monochromatic lives. During Holi, the usual white attire of the widows transforms into shades of red and pink, symbolising a momentary escape from the challenges they face in their daily lives.
Overall, Widows' Holi is a step towards a more inclusive and respectful society for widows in India. It signifies a shift in traditions and a celebration of life for those who might otherwise be ostracised.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is based on general information.
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