HAPPY HOLI - 2080, Holi Special Food Dishes 

Holi, known as "Fagu Purnima" in Nepal, is a vibrant and joyous festival celebrated predominantly by the Hindu community. It marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. In Nepal, Holi typically lasts for several days, with each day carrying its own significance and rituals.

The festival begins with Holika Dahan, where bonfires are lit to symbolize the burning of Holika, the demoness, and the triumph of devotion over malevolence. The following day is celebrated as Rangpanchami or Dhuleti, when people joyfully smear each other with colored powders, water balloons, and water guns, regardless of caste, creed, or social status.

During Holi, communities come together to revel in music, dance, and traditional delicacies. It's a time when people forgive and forget past grievances, strengthen bonds of friendship and family, and spread love and happiness. In Nepal, like in India, Holi holds cultural significance beyond its religious roots, becoming a symbol of unity, harmony, and the beauty of diversity.

Holi Special Food Dishes:

1. Thandai: Thandai is a traditional Indian cold drink made with a mixture of almonds, fennel seeds, rose petals, pepper, cardamom, saffron, milk, and sugar. It's often prepared during festivals like Holi and Mahashivratri.

2. Gujiya: Gujiya is a sweet dumpling popular in India, particularly during the festival of Holi. It's made by filling a pastry shell with a mixture of khoya (milk solids), nuts, and sugar, then deep-frying or baking until golden brown.

3. Dahi Bhalla: Dahi Bhalla is a popular North Indian snack made from lentil dumplings soaked in thick yogurt and garnished with various chutneys, spices, and sometimes sev (crispy chickpea noodles).

4. Malpua: Malpua is a sweet pancake or fritter originating from the Indian subcontinent, typically served as a dessert. It's made from a batter of flour, milk, and sugar, deep-fried until crisp, and then soaked in sugar syrup.

5. Masala Mathri: Masala Mathri is a savory Indian snack made from flour, spices like cumin, carom seeds, and black pepper, kneaded into a dough, rolled out, and deep-fried until crispy. It's commonly enjoyed with tea or as a snack on its own.

6. Buniya: Buniya is a traditional Indian snack made from puffed rice mixed with various spices, nuts, and sometimes dried fruits. It's a popular street food snack and is often enjoyed as a light and crunchy treat.

7. Namak para: Namak para is a crispy, savory Indian snack made from flour, salt, and carom seeds, kneaded into a stiff dough, rolled out, and deep-fried until golden brown. It's typically enjoyed with tea or as a crunchy accompaniment to various dips and chutneys.