Holi 2026: Is Holi celebrated in Pakistan as well?: In India, Holi is known as the festival of colors. This festival symbolizes joy, new beginnings, and the triumph of good over evil. Across the border in Pakistan, this festival is also celebrated annually by the Hindu community.
Holi Celebrations in Pakistan:
Holi is celebrated in Pakistan, particularly in Sindh. The festival usually falls in early March. This year, Holi is being celebrated on March 4th. Despite being a festival of a minority community, Holi is celebrated with great enthusiasm, traditional customs, and strong community participation. Furthermore, it receives support from local authorities for security and order.
The Biggest Holi Celebration in Karachi:
The largest Holi celebration in Pakistan takes place in Karachi. The main center of these celebrations is the historic Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Temple. Hundreds of devotees gather here every year. The festival begins with Holika Dahan, followed by playing with colors, devotional songs, dances, and community feasts. Karachi's Holi is special because it brings together people from different parts of the city.
A Symbol of Communal Harmony:
In Sindh, the city of Mithi is often cited as a model of Hindu-Muslim unity. Here, Hindus are in the majority, and they celebrate Holi not just as a religious event, but as a cultural festival. Muslim residents actively participate and engage in traditional activities like breaking the earthen pot (Matki Phod).
Multan and the Ancient Roots of Holi:
Multan also holds deep historical significance for Holi. According to tradition, it is believed that the festival originated at the ancient Prahlad Puri Temple in Multan. This legend connects the place to the story of Prahlad and Lord Vishnu's Narasimha avatar. Although the temple is now in ruins, its association with Holi is remembered as part of the region's ancient heritage.
Holi Celebrations in Other Cities:
Besides Karachi, Mithi, and Multan, Holi is also celebrated in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Hindu-majority areas of Balochistan. Even though the scale may be very small, traditions like applying colors, singing, dancing, and distributing sweets remain a big part of the celebration.
