In India, Sudneer Birodkar, an Indian novelist and ancient Indian historian, shared with us the following:
"From times immemorial there has been a festival called Holi or Holikotsava celebrated in March/April.
Holi centers around a bonfire. Weeks before the arrival of Holi, gangs comb the neighbourhood and collect all waste-wood, old wooden furniture etc. which they can lay their hands upon. After weeks of preparation judiciously combined with activities that come close to pillaging, assorted pieces of wood are piled up to be lit on the evening of the festival day.
Holi or Holikotsava is celebrated over two days. On the evening of the first day bonfires are lit, normally in a public place. On the second day people throw coloured powder and water at each other."