Phagwa, The Festival of Colors for Hindu Devotees

By Nicole Dhanraj

Phagwa, celebrated globally as Holi and commonly known as the Festival of Colors, holds a special place in the hearts of the Caribbean people. The festival lasts a night and a day, coinciding with the full moon (Purnima in the Hindu calendar). There are both social and religious aspects to this festival. Phagwa is known as the festival of Spring and is typically observed in March (marking the end of winter and the beginning of harvest and the vibrant flowers coming in bloom).

As a spring festival, Phagwa embodies themes of rebirth, renewal, reconciliation and the blossoming of love. It transcends religious boundaries, uniting people from various backgrounds in a shared spirit of festivity. The wearing of white, a common tradition during Phagwa, symbolizes purity and serves as a blank canvas for the vibrant colors that will be joyfully splashed during the festivities.

The religious aspects of Holi vary across different regions and communities, but some common themes include:

1. The victory of Good over Evil: One of the most well-known legends associated with Holi is the story of Holika and Prahlad. Prahlad, a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu, was protected from the destructive powers of Holika, who attempted to harm him. This story symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.
2. Love of Radha and Krishna: Holi is also associated with the divine love between Lord Krishna and Radha. According to mythology, young Krishna, known for his mischievous playfulness, used to play Holi with his friends and the gopis (cowherd maidens) in the village of Vrindavan. The playful and colorful aspect of Holi is often linked to these stories.

This vibrant celebration, deeply rooted in Indian traditions, has become a secular and cultural celebration, transcending religious boundaries and bringing together communities of the Caribbean in a kaleidoscope of colors and joy.

Celebration in Trinidad

Hindus wear white traditionally to indulge in the iconic throwing of powdered pigment and liquid, known as abeer.  From homemade PVC squirt guns to buckets of liquid, friends and family have a grand time chasing each other to apply these colors playfully. Truly a time that expresses love, community and goodwill.

Phagwa in the Caribbean features unique elements that set it apart. Chowtal singing and dancing competitions, particularly among school choirs and temple groups, add a melodic touch to the celebrations.

Accompanied by the rhythmic beats of dholak drums, these musical performances showcase the cultural diversity within the Caribbean. The celebrations extend beyond the actual day, with Phagwah Melas. These are open-air events that bring together people from all walks of life. These gatherings feature live performances, cultural displays and stalls offering a myriad of colorful powders and traditional clothing. The Phagwah Melas are a focal point for the community, fostering unity and cultural exchange.

In Trinidad, the celebration is deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric. Phagwa is not just a festival; it’s a dynamic expression of the island’s multicultural identity, blending Indian traditions with the vibrant spirit of the Caribbean. These unique traditions contribute to the richness of Trinidad’s Phagwa celebrations, making it a truly distinctive and cherished cultural experience.

Phagwa is celebrated globally as Holi, bringing a burst of color and joy to the Caribbean, uniting communities in a shared celebration of diversity. This year, it was celebrated on March 25, 2024.