Crystabel Ukwuegbu
On Friday, millions across South Asia came together to celebrate Holi, the vibrant Hindu festival symbolizing colors, love, and the arrival of spring.
In Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, both locals and tourists took part in the joyous occasion. Festivities included energetic dancing, rhythmic drumming, and playful smearing of colorful powders in hues of red, green, blue, and pink.
Leon, a foreign visitor in Nepal for mountain trekking, described the festival as a mesmerizing experience.
“So many colors, so much positive energy, and people simply enjoying themselves. It’s an incredible celebration,” he said.
David Hayes, a tourist from Canada, encouraged others to visit Nepal and immerse themselves in its rich cultural traditions.
“Happy Holi is all about connecting with people, having fun, and experiencing pure joy,” he shared.
Children stationed on rooftops and balconies playfully hurled water balloons filled with colorful pigments at those passing below. Meanwhile, groups of young men armed with water guns chased revelers through parks and streets, adding to the festival’s lively atmosphere. Others danced enthusiastically to music blasting from speakers in the streets.
In Nepal, the festival, locally known as Faghu, spans an evening and a full day, beginning on the night of the Purnima, or full moon.
Holi celebrates the divine love between the Hindu deity Krishna and his beloved Radha. It also signifies the transition from winter to spring and the ultimate victory of good over evil.
For Hindus, the occasion represents renewal and rejuvenation, embracing positivity while letting go of past negativity.
Holi is recognized as a national holiday in India and is widely observed in other South Asian nations, as well as among the Indian diaspora worldwide.
