FLINT TWP. — The Indian community of Greater Flint area recently celebrated an ancient Hindu religious festival, known as Holi, one the most colorful festivals from India. The festival marks the passing of winter and arrival of spring.
Holi is celebrated the day after the full moon in March each year. On the eve of Holi, large bonfires are lit to mark the occasion and were believed to burn away evil spirits.
Believers also state the event commemorates the victory of good over evil, brought about by the burning and destruction of the demoness named Holika from Hindu mythology. This was enabled through unwavering devotion to the Hindu god of preservation, Lord Vishnu.
Holi got its name as the “Festival of Colors” from Lord Krishna, a reincarnation of Lord Vishnu, who liked to play pranks on the village girls by drenching them in water and colors. Today, participants drench one another in vibrant colored powdered and liquid colors.
Community members flocked to the Kasi Temple Of Flint on Elms Road, one of the oldest temples in
North America, with their families to enjoy this festival on March 16th. It is a one a kind festivals in Genesee County including Indian music, food, and community celebration with drums and dance. Everyone participated energetically and made the event a success. At the end there was a bonfire and participants rallied around it, playing with the colors and dancing.
Although Holi is traditionally a Hindu festival, over the years all Indians have embraced it as a cultural event for the community. Residents from all backgrounds, including children participated in the event with their friends to enjoy celebrating the season.
According to Sachin Desai, Vice President India Club of Greater Flint, the club organized the event in celebration of Indian culture for local families and their friends.