PAC: Phagwah, help solidify Guyana’s ethnic diversity
THE Protected Areas Commission (PAC) is well aware of the historic fact that Holi (most commonly known as Phagwah in Guyana) is a festival that celebrates fruitfulness and richness of the land; it is also known as the Festival of Spring, signifying the beginning of Spring and the end of Winter.
The significance of this for the PAC is evident in the commission’s business of caring for flourishing rich lands – national protected areas across Guyana. We are, therefore, pleased to embrace and appreciate our Hindu brothers and sisters as they observe and celebrate Phagwah 2020.
In an era where much good is needed to facilitate prosperous living, the PAC also appreciates this Hindu festival as a celebration of the triumph of good over evil. We are additionally aware of the use of abir (coloured powder) and water during these celebrations – it is a custom of celebrants to throw powder and water on each other. We believe this helps to solidify and promote Guyana’s ethnic and cultural diversity as we often see all races, religions and communities playing Phagwah; this further promotes an atmosphere of tolerance for other cultures and religions which is certainly what Guyana needs at this juncture to continue its development.
The PAC encourages those who observe and take part in this celebration to maintain an environment of fun, safety, respect and peace. The commission therefore calls on all persons playing with water and powder to play only with those who are willing to take part. Respect and protect the private spaces of others, and the environment as you celebrate Phagwah 2020.
A happy Phagwah to all our Hindu brothers and sisters and to all others who usually celebrate the “triumph good over evil” and this colourful holiday!
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PPP: Let’s be emboldened with hope
As we celebrate the joyous festival of Phagwah or Holi, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) takes this opportunity to extend greetings to all Guyanese, especially our brothers and sisters of the Hindu community.
Phagwah has become a truly national festival, which Guyanese from all spheres of society look forward to. The diverse colours that are associated with the festival symbolise the commencement of the spring season and epitomise our nation’s rich diversity in a demonstration of a vibrant fusion. Like all of our national festivals, the significance of Phagwah, through its pertinent messages, speaks to, among others, the triumph of good over evil. This message is pertinent at this juncture given the current challenges our country faces.
Let’s be emboldened with the hope that, through resoluteness in the face of adversity and despondency, the messages of Phagwah translate to the inevitable prevailing of truth and fairness.
Our party is mindful that in these current circumstances, major events to celebrate this colourful festival, are no longer scheduled. While it may defy expectations, it shows that in the quest for truth, sacrifices are unavoidable. As Guyanese participate to mark the occasion, our party once again extends best wishes and urges tolerance and respect in the celebrations. Shubh Holi to all!
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AFC extends greetings on the occasion of Phagwah
The Alliance For Change is pleased to extend Phagwah greetings to all Hindus on this festive occasion. The lessons of Phagwah or Holi should always remind us that good triumphs over evil.

The symbolism of the Princess Holika being consumed in the flames intended for her nephew should be remembered and understood by all Guyanese as it tells us that the universe has a plan which no one can interfere with.

We urge all Guyanese to honour the symbolism of Phagwah and to support the colourful celebrations as a true Guyanese festival.

Let us celebrate the beautiful and colourful mosaic that makes up our Guyanese culture.