Harrow Civic Centre was ablaze with vibrant colours last night as hundreds of residents attended a special Holi celebration, one of the most popular festivals in India.
The event was attended by The Mayor of Harrow, Cllr Janet Mote, along with several local councillors and MPs including Cllr Sasi Suresh, Cllr Phillip O’Dell, Gareth Thomas MP, Ajay Maru along with local police officers and firefighters. The event was organised by The International Siddhashram Shakti Center in Harrow.
The celebration began with a traditional puja (prayer) and was followed by the throwing of colours, a traditional Holi practice. Attendees danced to the beats of Bollywood music and enjoyed delicious Indian food and sweets.
Local residents who attended the event expressed their joy at being a part of the celebration. “It’s a beautiful festival that celebrates love, friendship, and unity,” said Krishna Patel, a local Harrow resident. “It’s amazing to see so many people from different cultures coming together to celebrate this festival.”
The Holi festival is celebrated every year on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Phalguna (February/March). It is widely celebrated in India and Nepal, and in recent years, it has become increasingly popular around the world with celebrations held in Harrow each yet.
The celebration at Harrow Civic Centre was a huge success, it may be the last event to be held at the current building, and showcased the vibrant multiculturalism of the area. As the night came to an end, attendees left with colourful memories and a renewed sense of community spirit.
Speaking about the event, Mayor of Harrow, Cllr Janet Mote said: “Wonderful Holi celebrations at the Harrow Civic Centre with a great turnout from the local Community. Especially special as this will be the last one on-site.
“Holi represents the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. It is also said to be the enactment of a game the Hindu god Lord Krishna played with his consort Radha and the gopis, or milkmaids.
“Thank you to everyone who made the celebration possible and to all dignitaries who were invited.”
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