Hindus across the world today celebrate Phagwah – the festival of colours which marks the beginning of spring; the festival that symbolises the triumph of good over evil.

But in Guyana, Phagwah is much more than a Hindu festival. True, it was brought to Guyana by East Indians when they came to then British Guiana as indentured labourers in 1838 from India. However, over the years it has become a truly Guyanese celebration.
It is a time when Guyanese of all colours and creed take to the streets to frolic and play, mingle and embrace.
Horse carts, big trucks and canters are filled with people who dare to spread the colours of love. A little water, a little powder sprinkled on someone who then becomes unrecognisable under all those colours.
In the streets, “lil children and big people” both can be seen with water guns and buckets. Some add colour to the water, others add ice, all in the fun.
Thousands gather at temples across the country for chowtaal and bhajan singing, and passersby are greeted by the sounds of “Holi Re” and “Ranghe barse”.
Phagwah in Guyana means a kaleidoscope of colours- abheer, abrack, water and black pot. Phagwah in Guyana means sweet meats and sharing; sweet rice, gulab jamun, pera and polourie.
It is a time when the kitchens of Hindu homes are filled, as the entire family gathers to cook up a storm. Even some mothers-in-law and daughters-in-law who don’t normally get along, come together to cook the family meal on Phagwah day.
But it is not only the Hindus who enjoy sweet meats and the mostly vegetarian meals, as in Guyana, it is also customary to share these with your neighbours, relatives and friends.
Regardless of race or religion, Guyanese love and look forward to Phagwah each year.
Happy Holi Guyana! Play safe and have fun!