Holi is known as the Festival of Colors, and it is unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

Another festival featuring in the regular Fiji celebrations and traditions is another reminder of the island’s history.

Holi, the popular festival of colors, is known for its vibrancy and fun around the world. Holi brings people together irrespective of their caste, creed, class, or color. And it is no different in Fiji. People from different communities celebrate the festival by coming together and throwing powder colors at each other. The beautiful ritual is an effective way to move past grudges and forge new relationships, which is why it is celebrated in the season of new beginnings – spring!

Holi is an important festival for many people around the world, especially in Southeast Asia. To many, the celebration ushers in the new year, as well as giving people the opportunity to express themselves, renew relationships and put old grudges to rest.

Millions of people worldwide join this wonderful celebration. It is generally celebrated after the full moon in March each year. In other parts of the world, it is usually celebrated throughout the Spring months and even as late as the last week of April. The actual date of the celebration usually changes every year as it follows the eve of the full moon— the day that marks the beginning of Spring. It is also then extended to several days beforehand.

At the time of the festival, people would douse themselves with coloured powders and water as music blares and people goes merrymaking in the streets. The different colours symbolise creating a feeling of inclusiveness.

The Holi powder is not something we should be worried about though. It is made up of non-toxic and allergy-free contents that do not make it harmful to the environment. Each of the colours represents a different meaning. It signifies a special emotion that transcends the brightly coloured faces of people to a sentiment of community, equality and oneness.

The Holi festival was originally a time to celebrate fruitful harvests, fertile lands and great agriculture. For many days, people would gather large bonfires that will be lit up on the eve of Holi, also known as the Holika Dahan. The fires burn late into the night as merrymaking goes on until the wee hours of the morning.

After the event, the time to eat and drink delicious delicacies starts. Treats like Puran Poli, a sweet flatbread made of tasty dal stuffing and Thandai, a refreshing drink to keep you hydrated is served.

Holi is worth the days of having to rejoice with utmost enthusiasm and joy. The vibrancy of the festival gives off positive vibes and show unity, respect and a sense of revelry for every person.

These few days are full of family, love, and fun. It also encourages those celebrating Holi to be humble, kind, and tolerant throughout negative situations which are part of life.

Holi is known as the Festival of Colors, and the vibrant colors of Holi represent love.