THE Asia Society Philippines and SM by the Bay present the 4th annual Holi Festival in Manila on March 20 at SM by the Bay Central Park, Mall of Asia, Parañaque City.
Holi is an annual festival celebrated on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Phalguna — typically February or March in the Gregorian calendar. Holi ushers inv the arrival of spring, and is considered the happiest and most colorful festival of the Hindus. People imitate the colors of spring by throwing colored powder (gulal) at each other and up in the air. The throwing of gulal up in the air and at each other symbolizes friendship, unity, and a sense of revelry.
It is widely celebrated in India, Nepal and other places with a Hindu population. Recently, this festival has been popularized all over the world as a festival of love and colors.
Holi goers in Manila can look forward to a lively show featuring traditional Indian and Bollywood songs and dances, and live drummers and DJs from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. They can also enjoy the throwing of colored powder, games and prizes, and authentic Indian cuisine to fill their stomachs with. To remember the day, participants can have mehndi (henna) tattoos made or buy Indian wares from on-site sellers.
Holi finds its origins in many legends. One legend tells the story of Holika and her nephew Prahlada, who was devoted to the supreme being Vishnu. In a fire that both sat in, the evil Holika was burned alive while Prahlada was protected by a cloak that could not burn. Another myth tells the story of Krishna, whose blue skin made him too shy to approach the beautiful, fair-skinned Radha. After following his mother’s advice to paint Radha’s face with color, Krishna and Radha fell in love.
Thus, Holi does not just mark the beginning of spring. It celebrates color and laughter, the triumph of good over evil, and love and friendship. Holi is a time for merrymaking, and happiness, giving thanks, reconciling, putting away the past, turning over a new leaf and celebrating the new.
Tickets are now pre-selling for P150 and will be sold for P200 on-site. They are available at all SM Tickets outlets (call 477-2222). For tickets, inquiries, and volunteer opportunities, contact Asia Society Philippines at info@asiasociety.org.ph.
