Masan Holi's Story: Naga Sadhus Play Holi With Ashes, Know About Its Origin And Connection With Shiv

Holi is one of India's most celebrated festivals, celebrated as the "Festival of Colours". The festival is celebrated for several reasons. While some say it celebrates the eternal love of Lord Krishna and Radha, the day also celebrates Narasimha's (Lord Vishnu's avatar) victory over Hiranyakashyap. Courtesy of the Indian diaspora around the world, Holi is now celebrated in some regions of Asia and Western countries.

Some of India's most famous Holi celebrations include Mathura and Vrindavan's Holi, Punjab's Hola Mohalla, West Bengal's Basanta Utsav, Barsana's Lathmar Holi, and many more. Today, we will talk about the most unique Holi celebration in India, which happens every year in Varanasi. Some of the people have guessed it right! Yes, we are talking about Kashi's Masan Holi. Due to social media influencers, Masan Holi has gained a lot of recognition across the country in recent times. 

Masan Holi: Why do Naga Sadhus celebrate Holi on the banks of Varanasi with pyre ashes? Know about its connection with Lord Shiva

Every year, on the occasion of Holi, several aesthetic pictures and cinematic videos of Varanasi's Masan Holi make their way online. Although it is an age-old tradition that Lord Shiva's devotees observe, it has now slowly gained widespread recognition across the country. Now, without further ado, let's get into the details of Masan Holi.

Masan Holi is played in Varanasi a day after the Rangbhari Ekadashi, which precedes the main Holi festival. It is called by multiple phrases and names like "Masan ki Holi", "Bhaboot Holi", and "Holi of the cremation ground". The devotees of Lord Shiva use ashes for the Holi celebration, which is considered symbolic of devotion to Lord Shiva. As per Hindu beliefs, it is believed that Yakshas, Goddesses, Gods, Gandharvas, and many other divine beings participate in the celebration alongside Lord Shiva.

Not only this, it is also believed that Lord Shiva comes to the Manikarnika Ghat in Kashi to celebrate Holi with his ganas (ghosts and spirits) who are unable to join the human Masan Holi celebration. The tradition of playing Holi with the ashes from the funeral pyres unfolds with the mid-day aarti of Baba Mahashamshan Nath and Mata Mashan Kali at Harishchandra Ghat. The emergence of Naga Sadhus at the ghats of Varanasi for Masan Holi is a divine scene that never fails to give goosebumps to everyone, whether they are live or on their smartphones.

According to several media reports, the usage of pyre ashes serves as a gentle reminder of the eternal cycle of birth and death. Not only this, it is also believed that the ashes used in Masan Holi have a cleansing effect that rid the mind, body, and spirit of pollutants. After playing Varanasi's Masan Holi, a person also experiences internal purification and spiritual refreshment. The festival continues to trend on social media due to its unique celebration of Holi. 

What are your thoughts on Varanasi's Masan Holi? Let us know.

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