Holi of Braj is famous all over the world for its variations. But what happened in Falain village of Mathura proved the power of faith beyond science and understanding. During Holika Dahan on Tuesday, Sanju Panda came out safely from the blazing 30 feet high flames. During this, thousands of devotees present made the sky echo with chants of Jai Shri Krishna.
It is believed that Phalan is the same place where Holika sat with devotee Prahlad in her lap to burn him. This is 5200 years old Prahlad tradition. Keeping this tradition alive, some member of the Panda family crosses the burning fire of Holi every year. This time Sanju Panda accepted this difficult challenge. Before him, his brother and father had also followed this tradition many times.
45 days of celibacy and fruit eating
This is not just a moment’s courage, but the result of 45 days of rigorous penance. Sanju Panda told, ‘This fast starts from Vasant Panchami itself. During this period, attachment to family is eliminated and food is completely abandoned and only fruits are consumed. Before Holika Dahan, Panda took bath in Prahlad Kund and took blessings of God.
#WATCH | Mathura, UP: Following a very long tradition, a person portraying Prahlad walks through the Holika pyre at Phalen village.
Sanju Panda, who walked into the pyre, says, “…The preparation for this starts from Basant Panchami to Holika Dahan… At that time, attachment pic.twitter.com/nzBKyciEG5
— ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2026
30 feet wide fire and divine power
When the flames of Holika were at their peak, Sanju Panda came running from the burning pyre. According to eyewitnesses, the fire was 20 feet long and 30 feet wide, but not even a hair of Sanju Panda was spared. While sharing his experience he said that he felt divine guidance amidst the fire.