Explanation: Holi, also known as the "Festival of Colors," is a significant Hindu festival celebrated across India, marking the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. However, the celebration of Holi varies significantly across different states and union territories due to regional customs, religious practices, and cultural diversity.
In the context of the given options, it is important to understand the cultural and religious landscape of each state or union territory. Kerala, a state in southern India, has a predominantly Christian and Muslim population, and Holi is not widely celebrated there. The festival is more associated with Hindu traditions, and since the majority of the population in Kerala follows other religions, Holi is not a major festival in the state.
Puducherry, a union territory with a significant French influence and a diverse religious population, also does not celebrate Holi extensively. The cultural and historical background of Puducherry, which includes influences from French colonial rule and a mix of Hindu, Christian, and Muslim communities, contributes to the lesser emphasis on Holi celebrations.
On the other hand, Maharashtra, a state in western India, celebrates Holi with great enthusiasm. The festival is an integral part of the cultural calendar in Maharashtra, with traditional customs like Holika Dahan (burning of the demoness Holika) and Rangwali Holi (throwing of colored powders). The misconception that Maharashtra does not celebrate Holi might arise from a lack of awareness about the widespread celebration of the festival in the state.
Therefore, the correct answer is (D) Only (A) & (B), as Kerala and Puducherry do not celebrate Holi, while Maharashtra does. This highlights the regional variations in the celebration of Holi across different states and union territories in India, reflecting the rich cultural and religious diversity of the country. Understanding these regional differences is crucial for comprehending the cultural landscape of India and the celebration of its festivals.