NYC's Hindi community celebrates first day of Holi while practicing pandemic guidelines

Holi is the Hindu festival also known as the "festival of spring." It is also sometimes called the "festival of colors" or the "festival of love."

News 12 Staff

Mar 28, 2021, 6:45 PM

Updated 1,290 days ago

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Sunday marks the first day of Holi for the city's Hindi community.
Holi is the Hindu festival also known as the "festival of spring." It is also sometimes called the "festival of colors" or the "festival of love." There are normally huge celebrations across the city, but this year it looked a little different.
Hindus say that Holi marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring and signifies the triumph of good over evil.
Holi has been celebrated by Hindus around the world for centuries to honor the love of two ancient deities.
The festival is also sometimes called Phagwah, which includes Bollywood performances and activities.
A favorite part of the holiday for many Hindus is "Playing Phagwah," in which participants cover each other with different colored powder and water, something Sunday's celebration didn't hold back on, despite the rain.
Members of Vishnu Mandir, a Hindu temple in the Soundview section of the Bronx, say they are keeping the festival alive while still being safe by wearing masks and social distancing.
The first Holi festival dates all the way back to fourth century India.
Community members say they hope next year they'll get back to their usual celebrations.