Millions of Indians are celebrating Holi, the festival of colours.

The spring festival symbolises the triumph of good over evil and marks the end of winter.

People light bonfires, smear or sprinkle colours and water on friends and family, and treat them to traditional sweets prepared for the occasion.

It is one of the biggest festivals in India, with millions returning to their native villages to celebrate with loved ones.

The festival honours the divine love of the Hindu deities Radha and Krishna, and is celebrated with raucous festivities in the northern Indian cities of Mathura and Vrindavan, believed to be their birthplaces.

Historical texts indicate that the festival has long been celebrated to mark a good harvest and seek fertile land.