The vibrant powder, known as gulal, was traditionally made from medicinal plant derivatives like neem and turmeric to protect against spring illnesses.

This bonfire ritual, called Holika Dahan, commemorates the fiery destruction of the demoness Holika, illustrating that devotion protects the righteous.

Timed with the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna, the festival welcomes the vernal equinox and the blossoming of new life after the cold winter.

Legend says the blue-skinned Krishna felt insecure about his complexion, so his mother playfully suggested he smear bright colors on Radha's face.