Dear Editor,
Hindus across the globe will celebrate the ancient and auspicious festival of ‘Holi; or, as we from the Bhojpuri belt would refer to it, Phagwah: on Friday, 14th March, 2025.
It is important to dissect the relevance of this observance.
Self-transformation is the core of all Hindu activities. The aim of Hindu Sanskaras is to cultivate exemplary individuals for society. Quality members of the society create a much better society.
The story of Prahalad and the purpose of colours play twin roles in these observances. The devotion of the child Prahalad to his God and the fearless character that evolves from the process of devotion are much exemplified in this historic episode. The values imparted to the child transformed him into a perfect example of devotion, truth, sacrifice, and fearlessness – values which are necessary for a better society.
Hindu festivals also have deep social messages
Smearing and drenching each other in various colours disallows recognition of social, ethnic, and religious barriers, which sometimes have a tendency to sow division. The Bhagavad Gita, in the ninth chapter, verse 29 exhorts us that even the gods see all beings as the same.
The objective of a social gathering on this auspicious day is crucial for a more inclusive and non-divisive society, wherein the message of unity is not just a slogan, but is rather done through concrete actions, as outlined in the Hindu texts.
Across the length and breadth of Guyana, citizens from all walks of life join in this national celebration, and spread the social message of the festivities. Our Guyanese celebrations are done very much like those in Bihar, where, in the morning of Phagwah, people play with clean water, and in the afternoon, colours are used.
Various communities gather at different locations throughout Guyana, and celebrate collectively to demonstrate a broader social message. Communities organize mandir events for symbolic burning of Holika on the night before the festival.
