Stories and photos by Indrawattie Natram
FROM as early as 06:00hrs, Essequibians were already on the move, making their way to mandirs and Holika sites across Region Two to collect the sacred ashes following the burning of Holika the night before.
The early morning ritual symbolised purification, renewal, and the triumph of good over evil — setting the tone for a day filled with colour, laughter, and togetherness.
Soon after, villages came alive as families and friends gathered by the truckloads, travelling from community to community to greet loved ones and exchange vibrant abeer and gulal. Laughter echoed through the streets as faces were smeared with brilliant shades of pink, yellow, green, and purple. Children had the time of their lives, armed with water guns and powder, running joyfully behind relatives and neighbours, fully embracing the festive spirit.
Mandirs across the Essequibo Coast such as in Golden Fleece, Perseverance, Spring Garden, Queenstown, Anna Regina, Cotton Field, Sparta amongst others hosted special Phagwah services, where devotees offered prayers, sang chowtaals, and reflected on the story of Prahlad and Holika — a timeless reminder of faith, devotion, and righteousness prevailing over evil. The spiritual observances blended seamlessly with the social celebrations, strengthening bonds within the community.
Regional leaders also joined residents in marking the auspicious occasion. Regional Chairman Devin Mohan, Prime Minister’s Representative Arnold Adams, and Deputy Regional Executive Officer Omesh Sasenaryan visited several mandirs across the region, socialising with residents and extending Phagwah greetings. Their presence added to the sense of unity and shared celebration, as they interacted warmly with families and participated in the colourful exchanges.
The day before the celebrations, the joyous atmosphere extended into schools throughout Region Two, where students and teachers enthusiastically ushered in Phagwah. Campuses were transformed into vibrant spaces of celebration as children, dressed in white, eagerly exchanged coloured powder and sweets with their classmates and educators.
Teachers used the opportunity to educate students on the deeper meaning of Holi — highlighting its message of forgiveness, renewal, unity, and cultural appreciation. The story of Prahlad’s unwavering faith resonated as a powerful lesson of positivity and resilience.
Besides colours and music, the celebrations reflected Guyana’s rich cultural harmony, as children of all backgrounds joined in the festivities. The sight of bright smiles and rainbow-streaked faces captured the true essence of Phagwah — a festival that continues to unite communities, strengthen friendships, and spread love across the Essequibo Coast.
Throughout the day, the festival of colours was well celebrated as persons spent the day exchanging colours and sweet meats. Devotees representing the various Mandirs continued to move through the villages on trucks with music blaring from music boxes. The day ended with persons going to Mr Ganesh Jaigobon’s Annual Phagwah mela at Anna Regina.
