Celebrate Holi, the Indian Festival of Colours on March 7 in Vaudreuil-Dorion

by Rhonda Massad The Indo-Canadian Organization of Montreal (ICOM) in collaboration with the City of Vaudreuil-Dorion is presenting “Holi Hai”, a free family-friendly event to celebrate the Indian Festival of Colours on March 7, starting at 1 p.m. Holi, spring festival is celebrated each year at the approach of the vernal equinox, at the end of the winter season on the last full moon day of the lunar month. The festival signifies the victory of good over evil, the arrival of spring and end of winter. The family friendly Holi Hai rally will take place at the Jean-Marc-Ducharme Community Centre located at 21, Louise-Josephte in Vaudreuil-Dorion. During the rally participants will be able to collect “rang” coloured powder by visiting kiosks that display different facets of India such as classical and folk dance and music, culinary traditions, history, fashion and languages. From 3 to 4 p.m. the traditional splashing of colours will take place outside. Throwing colours on one another is a traditional part of this festival that symbolizes joy, harmony and unity. Each colour has a distinct meaning: green for harmony, orange for optimism, blue for vitality, and red for joy and love. It is recommended that participants wear clothing they are comfortable staining. ICOM will provide white body covers to those who wish to take extra precautions for their clothing. Smaller white plastic covers will be provided for children.

More information about the festival can be found by following ICOM on Facebook @myICOMontreal or follow them on Twitter @my_ICOM.