Rainbow of Aroha, diversity and inclusiveness at Waitakere Holi 2020

From smearing each other with colours to enjoying a plate of delicious gujiyas together, the festival of Holi ushers in a carnivalesque mood among people of all age groups, every year.

An ancient Hindu festival, which later became popular among non-Hindu communities as well, Holi heralds the arrival of spring after winter. It signifies the victory of good over evil and is celebrated as a day of spreading happiness and love. The festival is also celebrated as a thanksgiving for a good harvest.

Now in its 15^th year, the Waitakere Holi Mela will be held this Sunday 15^th March from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Trusts Arena in Henderson, Auckland.

Over the years the festival has grown from a mere crowd a few hundred to over five thousand with different communities partaking in this inclusive festival.

‘Our theme for our 20^th year of Waitakere Indian Association’s formation is Inclusive Waitakere and keeping that in mind, this year Holi celebrations will be officially opened by members of our Muslim Association who will lead us into a minute of silence in remembrance of the Christchurch Mosque attacks,’ says Sunil Kaushal, President of Waitakere Indian Association.

The day's celebrations will begin with the traditional singing of Holi songs by local mandalies called FAAG, which will be followed by Indian classical and Bollywood dances by various children and adults. Finally leading Indian DJ from Radio Tarana DJ Gabbroo will lead all the participants into upbeat Holi Music with lots of colours and passion for the festival. A special TikTok video will be made with the crowd which we aim to make it viral.

There will be lots of vegetarian food stalls to satisfy the taste buds along with space for kids to run around and burn the energy.

This is a free family fun day and everyone from any community is invited. Bring your camera, spare clothes, sheet and towels for the car seat, camera and a great attitude.

We do advise that if you are sick, please stay at home and follow the Ministry of Health guidelines on Covid-19 precautions.

The event is supported by Indian High Commission (Wellington), Radio Tarana, Indian Weekender, Massey-Henderson Local Board, The Trusts Community Foundation and Office of Ethnic Communities.

For more information, please check the Waitakere Indian Association Facebook page.