AS Guyana celebrates Phagwah, the Festival of Colours, it is a reminder of the richness of the nation’s cultural heritage and its ability to bring people together, irrespective of their ethnic or religious affiliations.

Phagwah, or Holi as the world refers to it, is not just a celebration of good triumphing over evil; it is a vibrant expression of unity, joy, and renewal of life with Spring.

In Guyana, the ancient festival has evolved into a national celebration, transcending its Hindu origins to become a symbol of the multicultural but harmonious society of the nation.
There are Phagwah melas and cultural events, which make the festival a cherished tradition that promotes love, harmony, and respect among all Guyanese.

The significance of Phagwah extends beyond religious roots, symbolising universal principles of justice, equality, and brotherhood. It is a festival that moves beyond the confines of culture, painting the nation in hues of unity and harmony of all shades.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali himself has accurately encapsulated Phagwah as symbolising a society where respect for each member, peace, and harmony top all else. When Guyanese from all walks of life gather to put colours on each other’s faces, they’re not just at play; they’re renewing their commitment towards a society that is pluralist and open.

In a world that is far too divided by difference, Phagwah is a beacon; a reminder that colour, rather than a source of division, can be a source of strength and celebration. As President Ali so eloquently stated, colour makes art, history, and culture come alive, and it can never be a source of division.

In Guyana, Phagwah is a national part of its fabric, demonstrating the ability of the country to weave diverse cultural strands into one of harmony and happiness. While we celebrate this festival, we must not overlook its profound meaning: that in unity, we can create a society in which love, peace, and harmony prevail, where every individual has the freedom to live his/her own way.