Bengalis mark Holi in Auckland

Bengalis resident in the greater Auckland region celebrated ‘Holi,’ the Festival of Colours at Western Spring recently.

Bhabna New Zealand, an association dedicated to serving the Bengali community organised the event called,’ Basanta Utsab,’ meaning, ‘Spring Festival.’

The Festival is an annual feature of the association since it began with a parade on Queen Street in Auckland’s Central Business District in 2005.

About 45 men, women and children participated in the festival, which included ‘colouring’ people’s faces and clothes, games and food.

Holi is increasingly being recognised as an event to celebrate, not only by various sections of the Indian Diaspora but also by other ethnic groups. Festivals are held with enthusiasm throughout New Zealand every year.

Holi is popular in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, UK, US, Canada, Fiji, Australia and in countries which account for Indian population.

With reporting by Tapas Kumar Mandal, President, Bhabna New Zealand Inc

Photo: Bengalis marking Holi in Auckland