President David Granger said Phagwah has become a fundamental part of Guyanese heritage as he joined hundreds in celebrating the Festival of Colours on Sunday.

Speaking at the celebrations hosted by the Indian High Commission,at the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) in Bel Air, Georgetown, the President said that Holi (or Phagwah) was traditionally practised by the Indentured Immigrants brought from India to work on the plantations of then British Guiana,but it is now being celebrated by all Guyanese.
He noted that this year’s celebrations are even more joyful,since 2017 commemorates the centenary of the abolition of Indian indenturship.

The President,being very adept at Guyanese history said, “Holi has been a source of solidarity and sustenance, during and beyond the period of indentured immigration… Holi has reinforced the link with the motherland and re-established cultural connections…so Holi is here to stay,” President Granger told the gathering.
The Head of State added: “Holi is an opportunity for the renewal of human relations–an occasion for persons to set aside differences. It is time to forget and to forgive wrongs; to frolic, so let’s have fun!”
Also giving brief remarks at the ICC was the Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Venkatachalam Mahalingam, who enlightened the gathering that in India (where the festival originated), Holi has several significances. He explained that Holi signifies the everlasting triumph of “good over evil”, love and the beginning of spring. It also celebrates the importance of agriculture.

The programme featured a number of cultural presentations. Also in attendance were Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo, former President Donald Ramotar, former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds,Ministers of Government, Members of Parliament and Members of the Diplomatic Corps.
Meanwhile, at the Guyana National Stadium,Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), thousands of Guyanese came out as the Inspire Inc. held its fifth Phagwah Festival.
While Phagwah was celebrated in many different ways throughout the day, the greatest spectacle was perhaps when thousands of hands decorated the atmosphere with all screaming “Holi Hai” in unison.
Chief Executive Officer of Inspire Inc, Dr. Yog Mahadeo said the aim of the show is to unite all Guyanese despite their ethnic, religious or political differences.
Holding steadfast to this aim, the thousands of Guyanese feted to Indian cultural pieces such as chowtal singing, classical and contemporary Indian dances and renditions of popular songs as well as catchy soca songs.
All of the show’s entertainers were locals, and in the spirit of the holiday;just as patrons were allowed free entrance, the entertainers performed for free. The line-up of entertainers included chutney sensation, Amir Khan and GTT’s Jingle and Song competition winner, Calvin Burnett,along with many other singers, dance troupes and Hindu religious groups.