Today is Holi, or Phagwah, one of the festivals brought by the indentured servants from India between 1838 and 1917 and bequeathed to our nation. While it is often celebrated as the triumph of good over evil, we must ask ourselves: How exactly did good triumph? This question is crucial, as it may provide guidance on how we should act in the present. The lesson from Holi is clear—it was through the actions of men, women, and even a child that evil was confronted and defeated.
In the axiology of those who brought Phagwah to Guyana, good and evil are not abstract concepts but are inherent in human actions. Oppression and wrongdoing are not external forces; they are perpetuated by individuals and must be actively resisted. Often, those who wield power unjustly are not distant figures but individuals close to us—within families, communities, and even leadership structures. The Holi narrative teaches us that no one is above accountability.
Hiranyakashipu, the king in the Holi story, was not always evil. He had once been a devoted seeker, performing great penance and receiving a divine boon. However, he succumbed to the corruption of power and demanded absolute submission from his people, even from his own son. In Guyana, history has shown us that many who start with noble intentions can be seduced by power, leading to excesses and injustice. The lesson from Holi is that we must always act within ethical boundaries and recognize the checks and balances that keep power in service of the people.
Prahalad, the king’s son, was deeply loved by his father at first, but when he opposed the king’s oppressive rule, he was deemed a traitor. Despite immense pressure, he stood firm, understanding that knowing better meant doing better—even if it meant challenging his own father. This is a lesson for our time: the struggle for justice often requires opposing figures of authority, even when they are part of our own circles. Whether in government, workplaces, communities, or homes, we must stand against injustice, no matter how difficult it may be.
Holika, the king’s sister, tried to convince Prahalad to conform, but he remained steadfast. This teaches us that oppression can sometimes come disguised as concern or loyalty. Many today justify wrongdoing for the sake of stability or personal relationships. However, Holi’s message is clear—justice demands courage and conviction, even when standing up means standing alone.
As a multicultural nation, Guyana is home to various value systems. Holi reminds us to understand differing perspectives and find common ground in shared ethical principles. The festival’s true spirit is one of unity, inclusion, and breaking down barriers. As we immerse ourselves in the revelry of Phagwah, let us also embrace its deeper call: to challenge injustice, promote accountability, and work toward a better society.
Moreover, Holi teaches us the importance of renewal and reconciliation. Just as nature rejuvenates with the coming of spring, so too should we take this opportunity to mend broken relationships, heal old wounds, and start anew. This festival, with its playful exchange of colors, symbolizes the erasure of past conflicts and the embracing of harmony. It is a time to forgive, to let go of grievances, and to strive for greater unity among our diverse communities.
At a time when our world is fraught with division and discord, the message of Holi is more relevant than ever. It calls upon us to act with integrity, and to cultivate an inclusive society where respect and understanding prevail. The splashes of color that define Phagwah remind us that diversity is not a source of division, but a cause for celebration.
May this Holi inspire us all to be agents of positive change.
Happy Phagwah, Guyana!
