Hundreds of vibrant festival goers turned out to celebrate Holi in Slough – an event described as ‘one of the biggest in the UK.’
The sold out event was held at Slough Cricket Club on Saturday (March 23).
Picture Credit: Alrich Events
Speaking of its success, Anurag Gupta, one of the organisers, said that Holi – also known as the Festival of Colours, was a great way to spread joy bring different communities together.
“The whole motto of colours is bringing different types of people together,” he said. “We don’t discriminate towards any community or faith.
“When you play with the colours, there’s no difference between any people,” added co organiser Parthiv Kumarswami.
“We bring those type of feelings with us. We need to take hatred out of us and be good humans first. That’s what it’s all about.”
Anurag and Parthiv are IT professionals who also run ‘Alrich Events’ – a passion project they set up in 2019 as a way to ‘give back’ to the community.
Picture Credit: Alrich Events
Saturday’s event was sixth time they had organised a successful Holi event in Slough, which continues to grow in popularity.
As well as the traditional throwing of brightly coloured powder, there was also a live DJ playing Bollywood, Bhangra and Desi Beats on the day. Bangra dancers, Dhol Players and live singers also entertained the crowd.
Holi is a popular fixture in the Hindu calendar. The festival celebrates the beginning of spring and the victory of good over evil.
Held on the last full-moon day of the lunar month, the festival sees people smearing bright colours on friends and family and offering prayers.
It is seen as a time to welcome the good and let go of the negative, signifying a time of rebirth and rejuvenation.
Picture Credit: Alrich Events
Anurag said that it was important to celebrate occasions such as Holi – a tradition which dates back to the 7th century.
“We want to ensure that our kids and future generations don’t lose touch with our culture and heritage. And that’s why we are trying do do these kind of festivals where people are engaged and people can enjoy and also cherish their culture and put that forward to the next generation,” he said.
“India has a long, rich heritage and culture, which people have cherished and enjoyed for generations,” added Parthiv. “These festivals are an important symbol of peace, unity and brotherhood.”
