Marked by vibrant colors, Holi is a Hindu celebration highlighting the love of the deities Rahda and Krishna, and the triumph of good over evil. This year, Holi falls on March 25 and is celebrated in India and across the Indian diaspora.
The South Asian affinity group invited Sage students to engage in this celebration during lunch on March 13. Students were encouraged to wear white clothes they were comfortable staining with the prepared assortments of red, blue, orange, purple, and green powder. Each color represents a different meaning in the welcoming of spring: Red represents love and fertility, yellow represents South Asian culture and cuisine, green symbolizes new beginnings, blue represents Krishna, the Hindu god of love, compassion, and protection. Students ran to tables to grab cups full of these bright colored powders to throw at their friends on Ramer field.
History and Social Studies teacher Dr. Nisha Kunte reflected that the Holi celebration was a complete success.
“It was really fun to see students having a great time running around, listening to music, and taking a break to come together in celebration of spring,” Kunte said.
“I love Holi because it combines cultural significance while also just being really fun!” sophomore Shaurya Mittal said. “My favorite part is when we sometimes use water guns in combination with the colors!”
Freshman Maya Desai said she loved celebrating Holi with her peers because she can share her culture and identity.
“I felt like I was back in elementary school running around with my friends without a care in the world,” Maya said. “I enjoyed a fun celebration full of color, laughter and playfulness.”
The excitement and eager participation of students has Dr. Kunte and the South Asian affinity group looking forward to making this event an annual tradition.
“Next time, I know to buy twice as much Holi powder,” she said.
