Holi is knocking our doors, and the abode of Lord Shiva, Kashi was awash in the vibrant spirit of Holi with the traditional celebration of Rangbhari Ekadashi on Wednesday.

Devotees offered gulal (coloured powder) and rose petals to the presiding deity, marking the commencement of Holi celebrations in Varanasi.

According to the legend, after marrying Goddess Parvati on Mahashivratri, Lord Shiva arrived in Kashi on Falgun Shukla Ekadashi. This day is celebrated as Rangbhari Ekadashi, a prelude to the main Holi festival.

In Kashi, the event holds special significance as it reenacts the "Gauna" ceremony -- the arrival of the bride (Goddess Parvati) at her husband's (Lord Shiva's) abode after their wedding. A series of preparatory rituals for the procession began three days prior at the former Mahant Kulpati Tiwari's residence in the Tedhineem area.

A lively procession, featuring the idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati in a decorated palanquin, carried them from the former mahant's house to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The "Gauna" procession weaved through Sakshi Vinayak, Kotwalpura, and Dhundhiraj Ganesh areas before culminating at the temple.

Drenched in vibrant dry colours, devotees played traditional instruments like shankhs and damrus, creating a festive atmosphere. They reached the sanctum sanctorum of Kashi Vishwanath Temple and offered gulal and rose petals to the deities. A grand Shobhayatra (procession) was also held to mark the occasion.

The Kashi Vishwanath Dham temple administration ensured a grand celebration within the temple premises. Performances by local classical and folk artists enthralled the crowd at Mandir Chowk. The temple administration thoughtfully offered "Thandai," a traditional Kashi drink, to visitors enjoying the festivities at Mandir Chowk.

Adding a local touch, residents celebrated Holi with pyre ashes at Harishchandra ghat on the occasion of Rangbhari Ekadashi. People playfully smeared ashes on each other, marking the festivities. The main Chita Bhasm (pyre ashes) Holi at Manikarnika Ghat will be held on Thursday, following Rangbhari Ekadashi, as reported by TOI.