When two new moons occur in the same solar month, an intercalary month is inserted. The solar month gives its name to both months, with nija added to the name of the first month, and akhika added to the name of the second. Begins the Hindu calendar. It commemorates the burning of the witch Holika. Also is a celebration of the arrival of spring.
People throw brightly colored powders at each other.
It is popular in India, Malaysia, and Surinam. Also known as Basaat . India Gitanjali Kolandad offers a word of warning to visitors who will be in India for Holi. This is one festival that can get a little out of hand, and it is best to go to a Holi party, rather than join the street celebration, especially in the cities. The men can get quite intoxicated and rowdy.