Indians celebrate spring with Holi festival of colours

Holi celebrates spring, fertility, love and the triumph of good over evil. Credit: AP/Manish Swarup

Millions of Hindu devotees in India and Nepal have been celebrating the spring festival of Holi with colourful displays in the streets and at temples.

Holi celebrations, which can last from two days to a week, are a joyous occasion with the focus on love, youth and vitality.

The celebration, known as the 'festival of colours' or the 'festival of love', is also said to represent the triumph of good over evil.

A Hindu devotee throws flower petals on others inside Banke Bihari temple. Credit: AP/Manish Swarup
Hindu widows, who were once not allowed to take part, enjoy the celebrations. Credit: AP/Manish Swarup
Holi celebrants throw coloured powder into the air during the festival. Credit: AP/Manish Swarup