Braving the scorching Manila sun, my friends and I went to the Seaside Boulevard of the SM Mall of Asia to join in the fun of the Holi Festival. Men and women, young and old, in white shirts gathered to celebrate this event. The Holi Festival, also known as the Festival of Colors, is a vibrant and joyous celebration originating from India.
This exuberant event marks the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Participants gather to throw and smear colorful powders on one another, creating a kaleidoscope of hues. The festival embodies unity, love, and the breaking of social barriers, as people from all walks of life come together to dance, sing, and celebrate with boundless enthusiasm. It is a time of immense joy and a powerful reminder of the beauty of diversity and shared humanity.
I admit I know little about the festival but I’ve watched Indian movies and TV programs showing people throwing colored powders. I think I’ve seen it as one of the challenges in one of the “Amazing Race” episodes. It’s a Hindu festival celebrated in South Asian countries.
The Holi Festival is a revered and ancient Hindu festival celebrated primarily in India and Nepal. Its roots can be traced back to Hindu mythology and various legends associated with the festival. One of the most popular stories is that of Prahlada, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, who was protected by the divine powers while his wicked father, King Hiranyakashipu, tried to harm him.
Another tale revolves around Lord Krishna, who playfully sprayed colors on his beloved Radha and other gopis (cowherd girls) in the village of Vrindavan. This act of playful love became a cherished tradition during Holi. The festival also signifies the triumph of good over evil, as it commemorates the defeat of the demoness Holika by Lord Vishnu. Today, the Holi Festival has transcended religious boundaries and is celebrated worldwide, symbolizing unity, friendship, and the arrival of spring.
The Asia Society, SingIndia Music Of The Soul, Indian Ladies Club, Federation Of Indian Chambers Of Commerce (Phil.), Inc., SM Mall Of Asia, and SM By the Bay organized a Holi Festival that also gave an opportunity to non-Hindus to appreciate the tradition.
When the countdown started, participants held on to their bright-colored powders and threw them in the air. Red, green, blue, yellow and other colors formed a cloud in mid-air and covered the people underneath. I read that the festival is also in celebration of the beginning of spring and a way of saying goodbye to winter.
And so I joined in the chanting of “Holi Hai!” and welcomed spring with colors.
Hello again First time Travelers!
I have never heard of this festival, it must have been fun and resulted to having a rainbow colored hair or head for that matter. By the way, what was that sweet food on the registration table? looks familiar? parang gummy worms? hope to see this festival next time. Annual po bah sila nagcecelbrate?
Anyway, great post! Keep it up!
Their dessert was like our sugar-coated biscuits. I hope this will become an annual celebration in the Philippines. Thanks for dropping by my site.