The Hindu festival of Holi is a joyous, colourful celebration of the arrival of spring. It is also known as the Festival of Colours, because it is celebrated in clouds of coloured powders and liquids.

Revellers chase each other, throwing coloured powder or firing water pistols filled with coloured water. The mock battles take place on the streets and parks, and anyone is fair game. Holi is celebrated on the full moon nearest the spring equinox.

IBTimesUK presents a gallery of photos from this year's festivities.