–City Mayor, Ubraj Narine

THE yearly Festival of Colours, known as Holi or Phagwah, is an ancient Hindu festival celebrating the arrival of spring, good harvests, and the fertility of the land. Hindu festivals are always both moral and religious, commemorating the triumph of good over evil. It is celebrated day and night, from the evening of the last full moon day of the Hindu calendar month.

The eve of Phagwah (Holi) is known as Holika Dahan, where Hindus gather to perform their religious rituals, pray, and prepare for the morning celebrations. Traditionally, Hindus wear white on that day of the celebrations, throwing ‘abeer’ on each other. ‘Abeer’ is a harmless liquid dye that signifies victory. Family, friends, neighbours, and foes come together on that day to enjoy the celebrations. Many delicacies, food, and drinks are also shared, and looked forward to on this day.

Guyanese from different races, religions, class, and culture look forward to this auspicious occasion, so that they can fill their water balloons for this colourful festival. This festival should urge our political leaders to come together as one for the benefit of all Guyanese; it is a time for not only Hindus, but all Guyanese to come together in unity to share joy, laughter, and love amongst each other.

As the Chief Citizen of the City of Georgetown, I hope to see a victorious City and Country at large, as we learn from these festivities. Unfortunately, we are still experiencing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and we must take all precautions possible to protect our brothers and sisters. If you take part in any of these activities, I ask that you do so cautiously, and please adhere to the COVID-19 guidelines. We do hope that by next year, everyone will have received their vaccines, and we can enjoy these festivities traditionally.

I wish everyone a fun-filled, safe, and Happy Phagwa (Holi)!