Every year, thousands of Indians celebrate the Hindu festival of Holi, commonly known as “the festival of colors.” On March 23, with the help of SAS, The Hindu Society, Ekta, and the Office of the Chaplains, students from all of The Claremont Colleges— regardless of their religion or nationality—came together to join in the Holi festivities at Pomona College’s Walker Beach.
The Holi festival marks the beginning of spring, and has its origins in Hindu mythology, celebrating the triumph of good over evil. On this day, people unite, hug each other, wish each other “Happy Holi,” and smear each other with a multitude of colorful paints. Usually accompanied with music, dancing, and a feast, this festival is the most anticipated celebration on the Indian subcontinent.
At Walker Beach, it was clear that multicultural events like Holi are among the most popular events for students. Holi in particular encourages the students to abandon their fears of getting messy, throw on some old clothes, and enjoy a great big free-for-all of paint, water, and fun. “Holi is my favorite festival in Claremont!” said Kiley Lawrence ’14.
This joyful celebration continued until the students were unrecognizably smeared in shades of bright blue and purple. As students rinsed off in fountains and sunbathed on the lawn, it was observed by many that Holi was truly a successful 5C event.