HAPPY HOLI!

CELEBRATE COLORFULLY

AND MARK A NEW BEGINNING 

Holi  -- largely observed by Hindus -- is also known as the Festival of Colours (that spelling acknowledges all the years as part of the British Empire, I guess). 

Radha and Krishna,
and sakhis playing Holi.

Opaque watercolor and gold on paper.
19th Century
Source: Simthsonian Freer and Sackler Gallery

Holi occurs at the end of the winter season on the last full moon day of the lunar month which usually falls in the later part of February or March.  

And it is exhilarating. As part of the tradition participants throw colored powder at each other, ignite a big public bonfire at the rising of the moon and celebrate with exuberance. Where it’s celebrated, the festivities can last several days. 

The festival has many purposes. First and foremost, it celebrates the beginning of the new season, Spring. Although it’s a not-particularly-religious holiday, it also commemorates events in Hindu mythology.  

But for our purposes, let’s get -- 

Back to basics: Originally, Holi was a festival that anticipated good harvests and the fertile land. It is a time of enjoying spring's abundant colors and saying farewell to winter. 

But wait. There’s more. In addition to celebrating the coming of spring, Holi has – 

An even greater purpose: One of Holi’s biggest customs is loosening the strictness of social structures, which -- in a traditionally caste-conscious society -- normally include sex, status,age, and caste .

Holi closes the wide gaps between social classes, eases social norms, and brings diverse people together.  

No one expects polite behavior; as a result, the atmosphere is filled with excitement and joy as well as colorful powders. Together, the rich and poor, women and men, enjoy each other’s presence and have a joyful day. 

Coincidently in 2012: In a similar spirit, today is also International Women’s Day. And in our bit of New Jersey, it’s a prematurely spring-like day with temperatures expected to rise to 70⁰F. 

CATALYST COLLECTION TAKEAWAY: Holi is the time to develop understanding and love for each other.  

HOLI IN ACTION: Holi calls to put an end to any hard feelings that might have cropped up during the year. It is strongly believed that even enemies turn friend on the day of Holi. The tradition is called, “Holi Milan.” So people apply color and share “a friend’s hug” with all they greet. 

In fact, on the days of Holi, you can get away with almost anything by saying, "Don't mind, it's Holi!" (Hindi = Bura na mano, Holi hai.) 

Celebrate exuberantly. Enjoy the bright colors of happiness and love. 

Geoff Steck
Chief Catalyst
Alexander Publishing & Marketing

8 Depot Square

Englewood, NJ 07631
201-569-5373
tgimguy@gmail.com