Holi, the festival of colours, is a time of great celebration throughout India. But behind the colourful festivities, the Kama Dahana festival is rich in mythological meaning. With its roots in ancient Hinduism, the festival celebrates the symbolic burning of lust and desires, remembering an event in the life of Lord Shiva.
Kama Dahana Festival: The Story Behind Holi
The Kama Dahana festival is linked to the myth of Lord Shiva and Kama Deva (the god of love). It is the symbolic burning of desires, remembering the occasion when Lord Shiva burned Kama Deva to ashes.
Based on Hindu myth, after self-immolation in Daksha’s Yagna, Goddess Sati was reborn as Parvati, who was the daughter of King Himavan. She was extremely attached to Lord Shiva and used to do strenuous penance to gain his love.
Meanwhile, the Devas were harassed by the demon king Surapadma and his brothers. The Surapadma boon was only breakable by a son of Shiva. But Lord Shiva was intensely meditating as Dakshinamurti, teaching divine knowledge to sages. With no other recourse, the Devas dispatched Kama Deva to stir up love in Shiva’s heart for Parvati.
Even though he was aware of the danger, Kama Deva fired his arrow at Lord Shiva. But Shiva, who is above worldly desires, remained unaffected. In a flash, he opened his third eye, turning Kama Deva into ashes.
This incident is referred to as Kama Dahana, which means the burning of desires. The form of Shiva that destroys Kama is called Kama Dahana Murti.
The Rituals And Symbolism Of The Festival
To celebrate this event, bonfires are lit, which represent the destruction of lust and dirt. Devotees offer mango flowers and sandalwood paste to Kama Deva as a tribute to his selfless deed. On the second day, people apply coloured powders to themselves and others, which represents the victory of divine consciousness over worldly passions.
Shiva subsequently recovered Kama Deva on the insistence of the Devas but made him invisible, and so he got the name of ‘Ananga’. This, too, is connected to Panguni Uttaram, when Lord Shiva married Parvati and returned harmony to the universe.
When And How Kama Dahana Festival Is Celebrated?
The Kama Dahana festival is celebrated in Phalgun Chaturdashi (mid-March to mid-April) in South India, which falls around the time of Holi celebrations in most regions. The festival reminds one of cleansing and spiritual advancement.
They set bonfires, pray, and use coloured powers, which represent purifying and restoring. Holi is not only a festival of colours but also a festival of divine wisdom. The Kama Dahana festival teaches us to adopt self-control and spiritual awakening in life.
Also Read: From Vrindavan To Tokyo, Here’s Where Indians Are Heading For The Long Holi Weekend
What does Holi mean to you other than its festive hues?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (For Representation) & Shrimath Anantheshwara Temple Vittal/ Facebook
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First Published: March 10, 2025 4:45 PM