Ayodhya: The sacred city of Ayodhya witnessed the vibrant beginning of Holi festivities with the celebration of Rangbhari Ekadashi at Hanumangarhi. The festival marked the ceremonial start of the week-long Rangotsav, blending devotion, tradition, and color in the spiritual heart of the Ram Nagari.
On the auspicious occasion, Bajrangbali was worshipped with full rituals and Vedic chanting at Hanumangarhi. Naga sadhus offered abeer and gulal to Lord Hanuman, symbolically extending colorful greetings and invoking divine blessings ahead of Holi. The temple परिसर resonated with chants of devotion as saints and devotees gathered in large numbers.
Amid the rhythmic beats of drums and traditional nagadas, a grand Holi procession was taken out from the temple premises. Carrying the sacred symbol (religious flag) of Lord Hanuman, sadhus and saints paraded through the city, spreading the festive spirit. The procession moved through major monasteries and temples of Ayodhya, formally inviting them to participate in the upcoming Holi celebrations.
In keeping with age-old tradition, the saints undertook the Panchkosi Parikrama, symbolically spreading the message of Rangotsav across the holy city. The atmosphere turned deeply devotional as folk “Phagua” songs filled the air, accompanied by showers of abeer and gulal.
The procession was led by Mahant Sanjay Das, successor to Mahant Gyan Das, who welcomed and guided the devotees during the grand procession. Under his leadership, the celebrations reflected both spiritual fervor and adherence to tradition.
With Rangbhari Ekadashi setting the tone, Ayodhya is now immersed in a unique confluence of bhakti (devotion), parampara (tradition), and vibrant colors. From this sacred day until Holi, the city is expected to remain steeped in festivities, drawing saints, devotees, and visitors into its timeless spiritual and cultural embrace.
