PRESIDENT of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr. Vindhya Persaud has called on Guyanese to have “clean” fun during Phagwah, the Festival of Colours, which will be celebrated on March 2.

“There has been a trend over the past few years where there is lawlessness creeping into Phagwah… people take off their clothes and act in all kinds of lawless ways… these things are not associated with Phagwah,” said Dr. Persaud on the sidelines of the Sabha’s Phagwah Mela at the Dharmic Kendra on Saturday.

She called on Guyanese to respect the Hindu culture while celebrating the festival.
Phagwah, also known as “Holi” is celebrated on the full moon day falling in the month of Phalguna (Feb-Mar). Various colours and powder are thrown on each other, amid loud music and drums to celebrate Holi.

The festival also marks the arrival of spring. Known widely as the Festival of Colour which takes place over two days, and is a celebration of fertility, colour, and love, as well as the triumph of good over evil.

This year, like many others, the Sabha has decided to give Guyanese a prelude to the festival with its annual Phagwah mela and bazaar called “Rang Rasiya” (colours).

Although the colour was not applied to the skin, the performances were colourful and eye-catching, especially the cultural dances and Taan singing- a skilful technique used in the performance of a raag at the extreme level of emotion in Hindustani classical music.

The melodious tunes from popular local singers like Mona Gowkaran and Vidya Ram coupled with the elegance and energy of the dancers of the Dharmic Nritya Sangh were too much to resist, as persons were seen tapping their feet and shaking to the vibes.
And like any good event, it would not have been complete without delicious food.

Some of the popular Indian delicacies that seemingly tantalised the taste buds of the people were pholourie, samosa and a wide variety of sweet meats.
Dr. Persaud said the Sabha did its best to ensure persons had a memorable experience. The Sabha has been hosting the mela for over 35 years.

“The fun does not end here though… we invite all of you to come out on March 2 to our Phagwah celebrations at the Everest Cricket Club ground,” she said, adding that persons should come out and celebrate together as one people.