Holi, commonly referred to as Phagwah, has evolved into a truly nationally celebration, attracting participants from all ethnic groups.

This was the view of President Bharrat Jagdeo who yesterday joined Guyanese in dancing and showering of coloured powder and abeer at the Indian Cultural Centre, Bel Air.

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Later in the afternoon the Head of State joined in the celebration hosted by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha at the Kendra, Prashad Nagar.

Although the two venues are hubs for Phagwah and other Hindu celebrations, President Jagdeo noted that the festivity is enjoyed by Guyanese throughout the country in a more lavish manner.

He recalled his days as a child when the community would be out in their numbers as early as 5:00am to usher in the celebration following the burning of Holika.

The burning of Holika and showering each other with coloured water and abeer are the main highlights of the festival.

The burning of Holika which is done on the eve of Phagwah symbolises the triumph of good over evil, as told in the Hindu scriptures. The legend is linked to the story of King Hiranya Kashipu and his son Prahalad.

King Hiranya Kashipu, seeking revenge for the death of his brother by Lord Vishnu in battle, went into a deep state of penance.

After consulting with Lord Bramha he requested eternal life, proclaimed superiority and ordered that no one mention the name of Lord Vishnu.

Hiranya Kashipu's son Prahalad refused to follow his wishes and a frustrated Haranya Kashipu tried to kill him.

Holika, sister of Kasyapu who was immune to fire, took Prahalad into a bonfire but through Lord Vishnu's intervention, Holika was destroyed and Prahalad saved.

So overjoyed were the people that they smeared the ashes of Holika on each other's faces.

Monday, March 05, 2007