And That's How You Play Holi: Indian Miniature Paintings Celebrating Courtly Colours

One of India’s most colourful and extensively observed holidays is Holi, sometimes called the Festival of Colors. It heralds the coming of spring and the triumph of right over wrong. Usually falling in February or March, the event is held on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Phalgun. The joyful dousing of loved ones, acquaintances, and even strangers with coloured powder and water is one of Holi’s most iconic customs. This happy pastime represents the dismantling of societal barriers and the celebration of variety and unity.

Indian miniature art is well recognized for its rich hues, dexterous details, and representation of diverse religious and cultural celebrations. The celebration of colours, Holi, is a common theme in Indian miniature paintings. Throughout history, painters have portrayed Holi scenes in various ways that reflect the aesthetics and cultural quirks of the times and places in which they were created.