Holi, Festival of Colours – An Ecstatic Celebration of Friendship, Brotherhood and Reunion


        As the winter subsides, the spring harvest begins leading to an excitement and anticipation in the people of India. Holi, the festival of colours dawns upon us for an exciting day. The word Holi derives from the word ‘Hola’ - this is a “thank you to the Almighty for the harvest”. 

 People of all ages celebrate this cultural festival by throwing colours on each other, dancing under water sprinklers and by having parties. Originating in India,Holi has now become a global festival, celebrated by thousands around the world. Irrespective of the religion, culture or nationality, Holi finds its place with its revelers.

 While everyone focuses on how people celebrate in India, here are some examples to know how this spectacular festival is celebrated around the world.

 Los Angeles:
In LA, this festival revolves around music and art. Along with what is known as ‘Colour Throws’, there are also bands playing, yoga classes, mantras, dances and cuisine.The organisers of the festival, the Utah Hari Krishna Temple, are very aware of the importance of the Holi tradition. They believe “The colour, noise and entertainment that accompanies the celebration of Holi bears witness to a feeling of oneness and sense of brotherhood.”

 Berlin:
Official Holi festival wasn’t celebrated in the whole of Europe until July 2012 when Berlin hosted the colourful event in Germany. The festival here maintains the root of the Hindu festival and also with a twist of the LA’s arts and music. It’s a mixture of both and also includes acrobats, dancers and up coming Indian DJs.

 Bangladesh:
This Bengal region is a multifaceted cultural nation with the Hindus, Muslims and the Buddhists. Though the country is Muslim dominated, Hindus celebrate their festival with lots of enthusiasm. The Hindus gather in temples and exchange greetings and play with colours.

 Trinidad and Tobago:
Holi is widely celebrated in these twin cities which has a large Indian diaspora. Here, it is largely known as Phagwa. Hindus here celebrate with colours, songs, music and dance.

 Holi awakens a cultural splendor.

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