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Foreigners Drench In Holi Celebration Along With Locals In Nepal

Tourists smeared in colors take part in the mass Holi celebration at Basantapur Durbar Square in Kathmandu, Nepal, on March 2, 2026. Foreigners join the celebration in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, smearing colors on each other's faces with the greeting ''Happy Holi'' in the premises of the ancient palace. The Kathmandu or Basantapur Durbar Square is a common place for Kathmanduites to gather and celebrate the festival of colors. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, previously the royal palace, witnesses major turmoils and changes in Nepal and is also referred to as the ''Holi Junction of Kathmandu.'' Every year, people observing the festival of colors usually visit the historical courtyard for recreation. The festival, also called the Spring festival, marks the arrival of spring and the harvest season. The first day of the festival is called Chhoti Holi or Holika Dahan, and the second day is Dhuleti or Holi. Holika Dahan, the death of Holika, symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and is marked by lighting a bonfire and performing a special Puja to burn evil spirits. The next day, people smear one another with different colors, including Abir or red vermilion powder. Among various cultural festivals celebrated in Nepal, the Fagu Poornima carries its own specialty and significance. People of all ages enjoy the festival with enthusiasm. One of the widely observed festivals of the country, the festival begins on the eighth day of the new moon and ends with the burning of the 'Chir,' which is installed earlier, on the full moon day. (Photo by Subaas Shrestha/NurPhoto)

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