THE FESTIVAL of Phagwah which is celebrated mere days before Easter signifies not only a group of holidays, but it shows that humanity is one especially when it focuses on the triumph of good over evil. This sentiment was expressed by President David Granger who was the guest of honour at the annual Phagwah celebrations hosted yesterday at the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) in Bel Air, Georgetown.

In attendance was Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, United States Ambassador Perry Holloway, members of the Diplomatic Corps, Ministers of government and special invitees. At the event there were many cultural dances and items to entertain the colourful crowd.

“The festival of colours is one for all Guyanese, it is no longer purely a Hindu festival, it’s a festival of joy,” the Head of State noted.
In offering his advice to India High Commissioner Venkatachalam Mahalingam, President Granger said Phagwah celebrations should not only be confined to the Indian Cultural Centre in Georgetown, but the festival should be taken throughout the country so everyone could enjoy and participate in the holy ritual.

The India High Commissioner in his comments on the occasion of Phagwah commended Guyana for its unity in diversity, saying “Long live Guyana.”
In explaining the meaning of the festival of colours, Mahalingam said Holi was a two-day festival. Holi celebrations begin on the night before Holi with a Holika bonfire where people gather, sing, dance and party. The burning of Holika (Prahalad’s Aunt) is reminiscent of his victory over evil. “Holi also signifies the ushering in of spring. It

also signifies the festival of agriculture which commemorates the harvest. It is also the festival of colours and the festival of love, it’s like our Valentine,” the High Commissioner said.