Before I came to India, I did hear about Holi and knew Indians back home celebrate it as well but never really had a chance to be part of it. I didn’t know what it’s all about anyway. Although I do recall listening to an interview and one of the leaders of the Indian association in Malawi was speaking. He said Holi isn’t for Indians only rather for all humankind.

Lucky enough, I was able to be part of the celebration this year. I have marked the 2nd of March, 2018, as my first participation in the festival of colours.

Holi From an African Perspective

So I guess this is the part where I tell you whether I enjoyed it or not. Well, let me start by saying, it’s a lot of fun! The fact that everyone, despite age, jumps and runs around like 7-year-olds is amusing. Which other festival do you see this? None! Amongst the ones I know.

It is simply beautiful.

Apart from the colours being everywhere and I’m not saying that hyperbolically, literally everywhere! The festival displays a significant factor.

Humanity.

In my own definition, being human is being able to celebrate with others in times of joy and being able to mourn with them in times of sorrow. Obviously, we all choose to celebrate rather than mourn and that is what Holi demonstrates.

Holi From an African Perspective

Holi is a no tension zone. All those things the youth of today say about cutting out negativity, this is the perfect festival to do that. Empty out all grudges and fill the space with laughter and joy.  Let loose and run wild with colours.

Honestly, I wish the festival could come twice a year. Its super inspiring to see such a cheerful atmosphere in a world filled with complications. And I would love to agree that, Holi isn’t for Indians only. It’s indeed for the whole human race. Isn’t joy something we all need?

I could go on praising the festival but let the pictures in the article do that for me. I can’t wait for next year’s celebration.