Bikaner, Mar 21: Characters from mythologies and Bollywood flicks got a new lease of life as Rajasthan celebrated Holi, the festival of colours.

Over 40 enthusiasts participated in a friendly soccer match called as 'Phalgunya Football' (spring football) organised as a part of the Holi festivities.

Some of the participants were dressed up as politicians to add a new flavour to the traditional festivities.

"I have come here as a character 'Zalim Singh' to stop the injustice during this festivity. I'm here to exhibit my sports talent in this 'Phalgunia Football'. Bikaner holi is very famous where people from all over the country and abroad come to see the festival," said Sunil Joshi, a participant.

Ram Ratan, another participant added: "I'm disguised as Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje. Just like the way she rules, I also scored the goal by myself beating the eminent participants here to make my team victorious."

Both the participants and spectators enjoyed the match thoroughly.

"We the people of Bikaner got to see the game in celebration of Holi. We are all excited about it and would see such matches in future also. We were greatly entertained by the match. We'll always come forward to make such an event a success in future," said Tuhin Joshi, a spectator.

Holi, symbolises the triumph of good over evil and is celebrated in the month of March.

Usually, Holi brings together people from all classes and age groups who put colour on each other, distribute sweets and take out processions, dancing to tune of drums.

As per the Hindu calendar, it falls on Phalgun Purnima (Full Moon), which will be celebrated on March 22.

In this festival, main emphasis is laid on the burning of Holika or lighting of Holi.

The origin of the traditional lighting of Holi is attributed by some to the burning of demonesses like Holika, Holaka and Putana who troubled little children or to the burning of Madan according to others. (ANI)