Which god started Holi

Holi is primarily associated with Lord Krishna, whose playful and colorful interactions with Radha and the gopis (cowherd maidens) of Vrindavan established the tradition of playing with colors. According to Hindu mythology, young Krishna was insecure about his dark complexion compared to Radha's fair skin, and his mother Yashoda teasingly suggested he apply color to Radha's face to make them look alike. Krishna playfully colored Radha and the gopis, initiating the joyful tradition of Rangwali Holi. This divine play (leela) between Krishna and Radha symbolizes love, joy, and the transcendence of physical differences, making Vrindavan and Mathura the spiritual centers of Holi celebrations. The festival embodies Krishna's mischievous and loving nature, celebrating divine love through colors, music, and dance.

However, Holi's origins also connect to the legend of Prahlad and Holika, which predates Krishna's association and explains the Holika Dahan ritual. Prahlad, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, survived his demon father Hiranyakashipu's attempts to kill him due to his unwavering faith. When Hiranyakashipu's sister Holika, who had immunity to fire, tried to burn Prahlad alive by sitting with him in flames, her powers failed due to her evil intent, and she perished while Prahlad emerged unharmed, protected by Vishnu. This story celebrates the triumph of devotion and righteousness over tyranny and evil, with Holika Dahan commemorating Holika's defeat. Thus, Holi draws from both narratives—Holika Dahan honors Vishnu's protection of his devotee, while Rangwali Holi celebrates Krishna's playful spirit—making it a festival with layered mythological significance centered on dharma, devotion, and divine love.