Explosion of colours as Guyanese observe Phagwah

DPI, Guyana, Friday, March 02, 2018

Guyana’s melting pot of the six races was unified as many celebrated Phagwah – the festival of colours – today.

The streets exploded with vibrant bursts of colour as persons attired in white Kurtas, Saris and t-shirts, turned out in their numbers, with their water guns, buckets, Abheer and dry coloured powders and dyes in observance of the festival. Many danced, exchanged hugs, shared drinks and laughter with their fellow Guyanese and foreigners who visited to engage in observing the festival.

The Department of Public Information (DPI) took its cameras to streets, to get a glimpse of the cultural blend. Among those areas visited were Kitty, Albouystown, Durban Street, and the National Stadium, Providence.

The Georgetown ward of Albouystown, in particular, was filled with excitement, as it appeared the entire community came out to celebrate the festival.

Through collaborative sponsorship, by various organisations, a grand Phagwah celebration was hosted at the National Stadium for families and their friends, who flooded the tarmac with their radiant colours.

Phagwah/Holi is a Hindu celebration that symbolises the triumph of good over evil. The word ‘Holi’ is derived from the word ‘Holika’, who was the demonic sister of King Hiranyakashipu and was burned to death with the help of Vishnu.

The festival, which dates back to the 4th century, is best known for the spectacle of worshippers gathering to toss a rainbow of powder into the air, completely coating each other.

It also allows for the fostering of national unity, especially in Guyana – a country that is striving to attain social cohesion among its diverse population.

 

 

 

 

By: Crystal Stoll