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Holi, the spring festival of colour that symbolises life, vitality and vibrancy, will be celebrated on March 17 (the day of the last full moon of winter) by Hindus across the globe, and in Pakistan. Holi signifies the triumph of good over evil and the festivities are marked by bonfires, lit to cleanse evil from the world, while gulal (coloured powders) are sprinkled or sprayed on friends and family.
Food forms an integral part of the festivities and preparations begin weeks prior to the festival. Gujiyas and jalebis are placed in thaalis for the morning pooja, and once the pooja is over, revelry begins. Crowds dance to the beat of dholaks, throwing coloured gulal on friends, family and neighbours; each colour represents a different facet of life; red symbolises purity, green signifies vitality, blue exudes serenity, while yellow represents piety.