Holi Purnima, the festival of colour was celebrated in Kathmandu and other hilly districts across Nepal on Sunday. However, in Terai, the southern plains, of the country the festival was observed on Monday.
Also called Fagu Poornima, during this festival people throw colourful powders and water canons at each other while dancing and singing as well. People of all ages, mostly youth and children participate in the festival.
In his message on the occasion has expressed the confidence that Holi Parva, the festival of colours, would contribute to promote mutual harmony in the society and further strengthen national unity. Expressing his good wishes for the happiness, peace and prosperity to all Nepali brothers and sisters at home and abroad on the occasion, President Paudel has described Holi as the celebration of victory of justice over injustice and victory of virtue over evil. Police has intensified security in and around Kathmandu valley to avoid untoward incident on the day. Around 5,000 police personnel have been mobilized in the valley for maintaining law and order.
Nepal Police have also used drone to monitor security situation in sensitive areas. Police have started checking vehicular movements around 100 places since early morning to monitor possible traffic rule violations during the occasion. The local administration had warned to take legal action if any one sprays colours or throw water canons to other people without taking consent.
The Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office has taken action against at least 250 vehicles including some four wheelers till Sunday afternoon for violating traffic rules including drink drives. Meanwhile, two youths died in Dholahiti area of Lalitpur district during a gang fight Sunday night as two groups clashed while playing Holi.
