THE Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (GHDS) has extended warm Phagwah greetings to the Hindu community and all Guyanese, emphasising the festival’s spiritual significance and its role in fostering national unity.
As the vibrant colours of Holi sweep across the country, the GHDS highlighted that Phagwah, also known as Holi, commemorates the triumph of good over evil, inspired by the story of young Prahlad’s unwavering devotion to righteousness. Beyond its religious roots, the festival is celebrated as a time to break down social barriers, promote fraternity, and embrace the spirit of shared humanity.
Dr. Vindhya Vasini Persaud, President of the Sabha, stressed that the celebration is more than a display of colours. “Phagwah serves as a powerful reminder that truth and light will always prevail over darkness,” she said. “As we smear each other with vibrant hues, we are essentially washing away everything that divides us. In Guyana, Phagwah has evolved into a beautiful social tapestry where every citizen, regardless of background, can participate in the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’—the world is one family.”
The GHDS also underscored Phagwah’s dual nature as a spiritual and social festival. Spiritually, it begins with the burning of Holika, symbolising the destruction of inner vices such as ego and hatred. Socially, it is a celebration of joy, music, dance, and colour, strengthening communal bonds that are vital for the nation’s fabric. The Sabha urged all participants to observe the festival with dignity, keeping it free from alcohol and vulgarity.
To mark the occasion, the GHDS is inviting the public to its Holi Utsav at the Everest Cricket Club Ground in Georgetown, starting at 4:00 PM on Phagwah Day. The event is free and family-friendly, featuring performances by local artists Vishale Samlall, Suraj Singh, Sookrane, and Neval Chaitlall from Trinidad and Tobago.
“I invite everyone to join us at Everest Ground,” Dr. Persaud added. “Let us celebrate goodness and our shared humanity, in love, happiness, and fraternity. Let the colours of Phagwah saturate our hearts with peace and our nation with progress. Shubh Holi to all of Guyana!”