With the स्थापना (establishment) of the sacred idols of Shri Shri Radha Madhab at Nandi Bari, the joy and spirit of celebration reached a new height. Earlier, the family and devotees would eagerly wait only for major festivals like Durga Puja, Lakshmi Puja, Kali Puja, Saraswati Puja, and Maha Shivaratri. But now, many more spiritual occasions have been added, enriching the cultural and devotional atmosphere.
One such beautiful addition is the celebration of Dol Utsav (Holi Festival).
On this auspicious day, devotees from the house, nearby areas, and the town gather together near the pond beside the Shiva Temple of Nandi Bari. Lord Radha Madhab, along with Shri Radharani, graces the gathering and joins the devotees in the divine celebration of Dol.
The story behind this festival reminds us of the deep devotion of Bhakta Prahlad. To stop him from worshipping Lord Narayan, his father Hiranyakashipu, along with his sister Holika, planned to burn Prahlad alive in fire. But the one who is protected by Lord Narayan—the bearer of Shankha, Chakra, Padma, and Gada—cannot be harmed by anyone. Instead, Holika herself was burned to ashes. This sacred story is well known to all of us.
Following this tradition, we first create a symbolic structure of straw (Holika form) and burn it, representing the destruction of our inner impurities and negative qualities. Through this ritual, we seek to purify ourselves and attain true devotion.
After that, everyone together offers Abir (colored powder) at the feet of the Lord, marking the beginning of this joyous festival.
It is truly a unique and divine experience—something that cannot be fully expressed in words.
After Maha Shivaratri, this festival takes place, and here we have tried to share some beautiful memories from previous years with all of you.
।। Hari Smaranam ।।
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