Hindu festivals help to foster cohesion – President Granger
President David Granger on Thursday asserted that festivals like Phagwah assist in the fostering of social cohesion in Guyana.
This remark was made during a chowtaal session and pre-Holi celebrations hosted at State House on Thursday in the company of Cabinet members and other significant representatives of the Hindu society.
The event featured performances from many dancers and singers who entertained
A group of dancers performing their piece
the gathering. There was a chowtaal session which involved a group of persons singing to welcome spring; the aspect of which the Festival of Colours is based upon.
In his remarks, the President stated that these festivals promote cohesion, also noting that he is proud to be a Guyanese.
“Festivals like this help to foster cohesion, foster respect, foster understanding and I just wish that this was not just a coastal performance; and people in all parts of the country could understand what the Guyanese nation is all about,” President Granger noted.
There was also a presentation by Pandit Ravi Persaud, who explained the meaning behind Phagwah or the Festival of Colours. He stated that Phagwah exemplifies the arrival of a new year for Hindus and is celebrated in spring; which depicts freedom and morality.
“We’re seeing diverse colours. It is nature exhibiting its beauty to the fullest. Nature’s beauty is beyond any other beauty,” Persaud said.
The national holiday for Phagwah 2018 will be celebrated today (March 3) with many brightly coloured powders, water and delicious sweet meats.
