Festival of colours
HOLI is a Hindu festival celebrated predominantly in India but it is also observed by Hindu communities in Fiji from the Girmit era.
It is known as the festival of colours or the festival of love.
This year Holi falls on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Closure of all Sanatan schools on Holi has been approved by the Ministry of Education to mark this joyous occasion.
The significance of Holi lies in its mythological origins and cultural symbolism:
1. Victory of Good over Evil: Holi commemorates various legends, primarily the triumph of good over evil.
One such legend is the story of Prahlad and Hiranyakashipu, where Prahlad's devotion to Lord Vishnu saves him from the evil intentions of his father, Hiranyakashipu.
2. Love and Brotherhood: Holi also celebrates love and the bonds of brotherhood.
It is a time for people to come together, forget and forgive past grievances, and mend relationships.
The festival promotes unity and harmony among people.
3. Arrival of Spring: Holi marks the onset of spring, a season of joy, growth, and renewal.
The festival is an expression of the joy and exuberance associated with the changing seasons.
In Fiji, we celebrate it in the following ways;
1. Singing of Chautal- a type of Indian folk song specific to the occasion of Holi for nearly a month before the actual day of Holi.
2. Colourful Celebrations: People smear each other with colored powders and water, symbolis ing the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of joy, peace and prosperity.
3. Community Gatherings: Communities come together to celebrate Holi, organising events such as parties, music, and dancing in the modern era. These gatherings provide an opportunity for people to bond, irrespective of caste, creed, or background.
4. Traditional Rituals: Traditional rituals associated with Holi, such as Holika Dahan (burning of bonfires). This ritual signifies the destruction of evil forces. This falls on Monday March 25, 2024, in Fiji and bonfires will be lighted in various parts of Fiji by mandalis and mandirs.
5. Special Foods: Special foods and sweets are prepared and shared during Holi.
Overall, Holi in Fiji is a joyous occasion that brings people together, strengthens bonds, and spreads happiness and positivity within the community.
It serves as a reminder of cultural heritage and traditions, fostering a sense of belonging and unity among the people.
This year we will celebrate Holi with our inmates in Naboro as a step to rehabilitation and we thank the Fiji Corrections Services for granting this approval.
My message to the public is to celebrate with caution.
Please do not throw water or colours on moving vehicles and by-standers.
Prioritise the safety of yourself and the people around you and pray for universal peace.
IT'S that time of the year again when devotees look forward to - Holi. Holi is an ancient Hindu holiday, originally known as 'Holika', which is celebrated widely in (mostly northern) India and Nepal.
The traditions of Holi and the significance has changed over the years, but essentially, it is based on the victory of good over evil.
The colourful festival is celebrated with the throwing of coloured powder, eating special foods and being with family and friends.
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