Celebrated across India, Holi is not just limited to throwing colours at each other and shouting bura na mano Holi hai! It encapsulates much more. Every region has its traditions to mark the festivities, mirroring the diversity of the country.
In Maharashtra, specific to the Konkan region, locals have a grand way of observing Shimga, a festivity similar to Holi. Unlike the Northern states, the people of Kokan celebrate Shimga for five days, starting from Phalgun Poornima.
Rick heritage of Konkon Holi
The festivities kick-off a week prior to the event. Youngsters of the community hop in and out collecting firewood for the Holi bonfire. On the eve of Shimga, the entire neighbourhood gathers to ignite a massive bonfire, emphasising victory of good over evil. Greetings are exchanged, while hues of orange sets a background of warmth, love and happiness.
Along the Konkan Coast, it is believed that with Shimga, God arrives at one’s home to partake in the festivities. Villagers clean their houses and decorate it with paintings, flowers and make beautiful rangoli on the entrance. Later, they shoulder idols of the deities to their houses in palkhis and pray for well-being and prosperity. A colourful procession of people singing and dancing on traditional songs alongside the palkhis with staunch devotion marks the unique celebration.
The 5th day of Shimga, also know as Rang Panchami, is reserved for playing Holi with neighbours, as layers of multiple colours transcend societal differences. People of all ages come together to smear each other with organic colours, made from herbal ingredients like neem, kumkum, and haldi. Konkon Holi practices also ensure that the environment is not harmed by harsh chemicals that are present in regular colours.
Knock Knock
Due to fast paced lives, Shimga has slowly vanished from the cities. However, thriving villages specific to the Konkan region (Raigad, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg) have kept the traditions alive. So if you wish to revel in the mesmerising atmosphere of this festival, now is the time to travel to one of these villages and experience Maharashtra’s authentic Holi celebrations.
