Ranga Panchami
Ranga Panchami is a Hindu festival celebrated just five
days after the colourful festival of Holi. It is observed on the ‘Panchami’
(5th day) of the Krishna Paksha (the waning phase of moon) during the ‘Phalgun’
month of the Hindu calendar whereas in the Gregorian calendar this occurrence
corresponds to the months of February-March. Ranga Panchami is also celebrated
in a colourful manner that is marked by throwing ‘gulal’ (red fragrant powder)
and splashing of colored water.
The word ‘Rang’ signifies ‘color’
while ‘Panchami’ refers to the 5th day and henceforth in some places across the
country, Holi is also played on Ranga Panchami. According to the Hindu
mythology, Ranga Panchami is symbolic of victory over ‘raja-tama’, which is the
barrier to spiritual advancement. It is celebrated with full fervour in the
states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and some regions of North India. In
Maharashtra it is celebrated as ‘Shimgo’ or ‘Shimga’ and is characterised by
the traditional Palkhi dance. It is observed mainly by the members of fishing
community and involved dancing, singing and merry-making. In temples of
Vrindavan and Mathura, the celebration of Rang Panchami culminates the
festivities of Holi.
Significance
of Ranga Panchami:
Ranga Panchami is a joyous festival
that is celebrated in all corners of the country. Occurring just after Holi,
this festival is also marked with colors, fun and frolic, much like Holi. Ranga
Panchami holds immense religious significance for Hindus. As per the legends it
is believed that ‘Holika Dahan’ or the fire that shines brilliantly during Holi
putrefies all the raja-tama particles that are present in the atmosphere. It
renders a pure aura in its surroundings and charges the atmosphere with
tremendous positivity. This ceremony also invocates several deities through the
medium of colors. It is therefore considered that the festival of Ranga
Panchami frees all the raja-tama.
There is another perspective to
Ranga Panchami celebrations. The main objective of this festival is to activate
the ‘Panch Tatva’ or the five elements that make up the universe. These five
elements constitute of earth, light, water, sky and wind. It is considered that
the human body is also made of these five elements. The festival of Ranga
Panchami invokes these five basic elements that help to restore balance in
life.
Rituals during Ranga Panchami:
- The celebrations of Rang Panchami resemble
much like Holi. This day is marked by playing colors with friends and
families.
- On this day Hindu devotees also worship
Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha. They perform puja rituals to pay homage to
the divine unison between Krishna and Radha.
2016 Date :28th
March,Monday.
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