Though Holi is purely an Indian
festival, it is gradually appealing to the international populace as
well. The splendor and charisma of the festival is such that it is
celebrated far beyond the boundaries of the country. The secular
character of Holi is established by the fact that people residing in
different parts of the world soak themselves in the colors of Holi.
Indians have spread to the different corners of the globe, contributing
to the fact that Holi festival is celebrated widely.
This festival knows no bars, no boundaries. The gusto and the bonhomie
with which it is celebrated, is simply worth seeing. People play with
colors, light a bonfire called Holika and celebrate the victory of good
over evil. The world has become a global village and all the barriers
related to caste, color, religion and region are fading away. This is
exactly what the festival of Holi propagates. Universal brotherhood,
unity and peace are some of the virtues preached by it.
The festival provides people with an opportunity to mingle with each
other, thereby improving their ties and bonds. The Indians settled
abroad are even more eager to celebrate the festival, as it reminds them
of their motherland and their loved ones. Like India, they also exchange
sweets and greet each other. The spirit of festivity binds them to their
roots. A break from the hum drum of daily life, Holi provides an
opportunity to soak them in the colors of harmony.
Holi festival is celebrated with ardor in the countries like USA and
UK. These countries constitute a sizeable population of Indians which
tells us the reason why the festival is observed with such gaiety here.
In USA, religious organizations and societies take the responsibility of
organizing the festival. Music programs and meets are conducted to fill
the air with the spirit of India. New York is completely dabbled by the
colorful waters. Holi is marked by parades and attended by Indians,
rejoicing, playing with colors in the midst.
The charm of the festival is enriched by dance performances, fashion
shows and music concerts presented by the glitzy, glamorous Bollywood
stars. On the other hand, in UK, the revelry of the festival is seen
profoundly at places with a large congregation of Indians. The British
city of Leicester is particularly known for its love for celebrating
Indian festivals. The enthusiasm reaches its peak on the occasion of
Holi. The joyous festival is marked with social gatherings and exchange
of sweets.
