By Amanda Moses
Holi took place on March 14th, an ancient Hindu festival celebrating Radha Krishna. This joyous occasion emphasizes unity, love, forgiveness, and, overall, the start of a happier, brighter spring.
The festivities begin in the evening with Holika (also known as Choti Holi), which typically involves a bonfire. This symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, and the celebration continues into the following day. During Holi, friends, families, and communities gather to smear or toss colorful powders onto each other, symbolizing reverence, love, and respect. It serves as a reminder that despite disagreements or challenges, goodness will always prevail, and love will unite us all.
Legend:
There are several myths surrounding the origins of Holi, one of which involves the powerful king Hiranyakshyap. This king demanded that everyone worship him as a god, but his son, Prahlad, remained devoted to Lord Vishnu, angering his father. In his wrath, the king plotted to have his son killed by his sister Holika, who was supposed to be immune to fire. She sat in a blazing fire with Prahlad on her lap, but the plan backfired. Prahalad’s devotion to Lord Vishnu protected him, while the flames consumed Holika due to her sins. The bonfire lit on the night before Holi represents the victory of good over evil.
To learn more about the various legends and facts surrounding Holi, visit: https://www.holifestival.org/
In New York City, the 37th annual Phagwah Parade (Holi) flooded the streets of Richmond Hills with colorful powder on March 23 at 11 am. Kicking off at Liberty Avenue and 133rd Street in Queens, the parade continued to Smokey Oval Park on 125th Street.
Photos by Amanda Moses
