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Georgetown Mayor, Pandit Ubraj Narine in a message to mark the Hindu religious holiday of Phagwah said that the festival is a time for not only Hindus but all Guyanese to come together in unity to share joy, laughter, and love amongst each other.
Full text of message:
The yearly festival of colours known as Holi or Phagwah is an ancient Hindu festival celebrating the arrival of spring, good harvests, and fertility of the land. Hindu festivals are always both moral and religious commemorating the triumph of good over evil. It is celebrated day and night from the evening of the last full moon day of the Hindu calendar month. Phagwah (Holi) is a public holiday for all Guyanese which falls on Monday, 29th March this year.
The eve of Phagwah (Holi) is known as Holika Dahan, where Hindu’s gather to perform their religious rituals, pray and prepare for the morning celebrations. Traditionally, Hindus wear white on that day of the celebrations, throwing ‘abeer’ on each other. ‘Abeer’ is a harmless liquid dye that signifies victory. Family, friends, neighbours, and foes come together on that day to enjoy the celebrations. Many delicacies, food, and drinks are also shared, and look forward to on this day.
Guyanese from different races, religion, class, and culture look forward to this auspicious occasion so that they can fill their water balloons for this colorful festival this festival should urge our political leaders to come together as one for the benefit of all Guyanese. It is a time for not only Hindus but all Guyanese to come together in unity to share joy, laughter, and love amongst each other.
As the Chief Citizen of the City of Georgetown, I hope to see a victorious City and Country at large, as we learn from these festivities. Unfortunately, we are still experiencing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and we must take all precautions possible to protect our brothers and Sisters. If you take part in any of these activities, I ask that you do so cautiously and please adhere to the COVID-19 guidelines. We do hope by next year everyone will receive their vaccines, and we can enjoy these festivities traditionally. I wish everyone a fun-filled, safe, and Happy Phagwa (Holi)!
