Holi is the biggest celebration of the year in the northern part of India. But most of southern India doesn’t consider it is a festival besides a few communities. Also, people from north India that are residing in Kerala celebrate Holi with all its festivities. Let’s know how people of Kerala celebrate Holi.
Holi 2020 in Kerala:
Holi is known as Manjal Kuli or Ukuli. It is only celebrated in temples of communities that acknowledge this festival. Let’s know about it in detail.
Communities if Kerala who celebrate Holi:
The Konkani communities and Gaud Sarawat Brahmins of Kerala celebrate Holi as Manjal Kuli or Ukuli. The celebration continues for four consecutive days in March after the full moon. However, the festival takes place in Gosripuram Thiruma’s Konkani Temples.
Also, the other community of Kerala that celebrates Holi is the Kudumbi community. They are migrants from Goa that now reside in Kerala. They celebrate Holi in around 20 temples of Kerala.
The specialty of Holi celebration in Kerala:
Kudumbi community brings the wood of the areca nut tree to light the bonfire in some temples. It is to celebrate the victory of Goddess Durga over evil. In other temples, Kudumbis make a crocodile of mud. The crocodile they make is a tribute to the Goddess who helped the Kudumbi community during migration from Goa to Kerala. Whatever the name or form of celebration is, it relates to Holika Dahan or Choti Holi.
On the next day, the Kudumbi community plays with colors and enjoys music and dance. So, this day is the same as the day of Holi in north India.
Celebration of Holi for Outsiders of Kerala:
People who are living in Kerala and are from north India, celebrate Holi with all the basic traditions. The celebration takes place in their homes. However, they prepare the traditional food of Holi and enjoy the festival with full enthusiasm.
If you want to explore and enjoy a unique version of Holi, Kerala is the best option to visit in 2020. Colors of Kerala in Holi celebrations will surely inspire you.