Millions of Indians on Friday celebrated the Hindu festival of Holi, dancing to festive music, exchanging food and drink, and smearing each other with red, green, blue and pink powder, turning the air into a joyful kaleidoscope of color.

Holi, celebrated with color and traditional festivities across India, emphasized unity amid diversity. Security was tightened in various states coinciding with Ramadan prayers. Political leaders underscored messages of unity while festivities unfolded across regions,

Millions of people in South Asia are celebrating Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, by smearing each other with brightly colored powder, dancing to festive music and feasting on traditional sweets prepared for the occasion.