On Saturday, March 15, Grand Valley State University’s Indian Association celebrated Holi with an evening of music, dance and rejuvenation. The free event, which was supported by the Asian Student Appreciation Program (ASAP) and the Kaufman Interfaith Institute, was open to all students and their families, and encouraged participants to increase their awareness of the traditional festival.
Holi, which has roots in Indian culture, was first mentioned in historical texts that date as far back as the seventh century. The holiday primarily signifies the end of winter and the beginning of the spring season, which has associations with renewal and the end of conflict. Joy and love are the central themes of this celebration. Another important aspect of Holi is the idea of play. Colored water and powder are thrown by those who engage in the holiday, which puts a focus on happiness within the community. Holi is a time of carefree togetherness.
Likhithasree Kommineni, the membership officer of the Indian Association, explained how the tradition of Holi came to be.
“Holi originates from Hindu mythology, where Lord Prahlada, a devotee of Lord Vishnu, triumphed over his tyrannical father, King Hiranyakashipu, with the help of Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Vishnu,” Kommineni said. “Holi is also a time for renewal. People come together to celebrate, forgive past grievances and embrace a fresh start.”
According to Kommineni, the core elements of Holi, such as throwing colors and enjoying music, have remained the same across the globe. However, outside of India, one different aspect can be found in the cuisine.
“One noticeable difference (has been) the absence of traditional sweets and drinks like lassi, which are commonly enjoyed after the celebrations in India,” Kommineni said. “Despite that, the spirit of joy and togetherness (at the event) was very much alive at GVSU.”
Kommineni thanked ASAP and the Kaufman Interfaith Institute for their help in hosting the event.
“We (the Indian Association) were especially grateful to Anna Miller from ASAP for sponsoring the colors and Liz English (of the Kaufman Interfaith Institute) for providing snacks, which showed how much the GVSU community values cultural celebrations and making students feel at home,” said Kommineni.
By hosting a Holi celebration at the University, students were able to expose themselves to a new culture, ideas and way of life. Events like these can broaden students’ worldview, and help them become active and educated participants in their communities. This knowledge also prepares students for opportunities that arise after completing an undergraduate degree. Traveling to other states and countries to pursue careers can lead to interactions with diverse groups of people. By learning about cultures that differ from their own, students can develop an appreciation for various traditions they may encounter.
“(The event was) a diverse and welcoming celebration for all who wanted to experience Holi,” said Lasya Priya Vemalla, the Indian Association’s social media coordinator.
The Holi festival is one example of the cultural celebrations that the Indian Association hosts. In the past, they have held events for Dussehra, also known as Dashain and Diwali. These are festivals that celebrate aspects of Indian culture and religion. Ugadi and Gudi Padwa, a festival similar to New Year’s celebrations, is another event that has been recognized on campus. Promoting awareness of the multicultural presence at GVSU helps to create an environment where all students can feel safe, represented and uplifted.
