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The universal appeal of Holi lies in its core themes—joy, unity, and inclusivity. The festival’s simplicity, where people set aside differences to celebrate together, makes it accessible and appealing across cultures
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The power of social media has further amplified Holi’s reach, with videos of colourful celebrations going viral each year, inspiring people worldwide to join in the festivities
Holi, the vibrant festival of colours, has long been an integral part of Indian culture, symbolizing the arrival of spring, the triumph of good over evil, and the spirit of unity. While its roots lie in Hindu traditions, Holi has transcended geographical boundaries and is now celebrated across the globe with enthusiasm, joy, and cultural inclusivity.
From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the desert landscapes of Dubai, Holi continues to bring people together, fostering harmony and festivity.
Holi in Nepal: A Riot of Colours in Kathmandu
In Nepal, Holi transforms the capital city, Kathmandu, into a dazzling spectacle of colours. Thousands of people take to the streets, dousing each other in vibrant powders, dancing to traditional and contemporary music, and reveling in the infectious energy of the festival.
The celebrations in Nepal closely mirror those in India, reflecting the deep-rooted cultural ties between the two nations.
Holi in Oman: Indian Expatriates Keep Traditions Alive
In Oman, Indian expatriates marked Holi with traditional fervour. The celebrations began with Holika Dahan in temple premises, a ritual symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
The main festival took place on Friday, with community gatherings held at rented villas and water parks across the country.
Aayush Mehul Khokhani, the organizer of the Holi Festival in Salalah, Oman, described the event as a resounding success. “It was a beautifully organized event with an impressive gathering of about 300 people at Salalah Hawana’s Aqua Water Park,” he said.
The celebrations included dance, music, and an immersive cultural experience that even drew foreign visitors.
A British tourist shared his experience as an event full of joy and happiness: “It was my first time celebrating Holi. I loved the mood, the happiness, and the way Indians celebrated it. My family and I had an amazing time.”
Holi in the UAE: Balancing Tradition and Local Sensitivities
In the United Arab Emirates, where a significant Indian diaspora resides, Holi celebrations were adjusted to respect the ongoing Ramadan observances, the Gulf News reported. While many Hindu families marked the occasion with prayers and traditional dishes, large-scale colour play was postponed until after Ramadan.
Dubai’s Hindu Temple hosted special prayer sessions for devotees. Meanwhile, community-driven Holi events were rescheduled to April 1, ensuring festivities could be enjoyed while respecting cultural sensitivities. Sunil Grover, an event organizer, highlighted that over 10,000 people participate in their annual Holi celebration at Zabeel Park, which this year will be held after Ramadan.
Adding a unique touch, Emirates Airline celebrated Holi mid-flight, serving festive treats like Kesar Gujiya and Thandai on select routes to India. With Indian music, Bollywood films, and special menus, passengers got a taste of Holi even at 35,000 feet.
Holi’s Global Footprint: From America to Australia
Holi’s global appeal continues to expand, with countries worldwide incorporating the festival into their cultural calendars, mediaindia.eu reported.
United States: Cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago host large-scale Holi events featuring Bollywood music, colour throws, and Indian cuisine. The Holi Festival at the Krishna Temple in Spanish Fork, Utah, attracts over 50,000 attendees annually.
United Kingdom: London, Birmingham, and Leicester see vibrant Holi celebrations, blending traditional festivities with British festival culture, including DJ performances and themed cruises on the River Thames.
Australia: Melbourne’s Federation Square hosts one of the country’s largest Holi festivals, complete with dance performances and food trucks. Bondi Beach has also become a hotspot for Holi celebrations, where revellers enjoy the festival against a picturesque ocean backdrop.
South Africa: Durban’s large Indian community celebrates Holi with cultural programs that fuse Indian classical music with African beats, creating a unique and dynamic experience.
Thailand: Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket merge Holi with the traditional Songkran Water Festival, adding an exciting fusion of colour play, water fights, and EDM parties to the celebrations.
Why Holi Resonates Globally
From temple courtyards in Dubai to bustling streets in Nepal and beachside parties in Australia, Holi has evolved into a global festival that celebrates love, happiness, and cultural exchange. No matter where one is, the arrival of spring is now marked with a burst of colours, reminding us all that joy is meant to be shared.
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