Holi begins with the installation of ceremonial ‘Chir’ [In Pictures]

KATHMANDU: Holi festival formally began in Kathmandu Valley with the installation of Chir – a ceremonial bamboo pole adorned with three tiers of colorful clothes – on Monday.

The Chir was installed at the auspicious time of 7:45 am. The Manandhar community of Kathmandu Valley installed the pole and smeared colors on each other to mark the beginning of the Holi festival. Gajendra Manandhar, a member of the Manandhar community, said the installation of Chir marks the victory of good over evil.

The festival of Holi is steeped in mythology and is associated with several legends. According to one popular legend, the festival commemorates the victory of good over evil, represented by the demon king Hiranyakashipu and his son Pralhad. The festival is also believed to celebrate the love and devotion of Lord Krishna and Radha. The festival is a time for people to come together, forget their differences, and celebrate the joy and happiness of life. People smear each other with colors, sing and dance to traditional folk music, and indulge in delicious food and sweets.

Holi is being celebrated in hilly areas on March 6 and in Tarai areas on March 8.