See all the wonderful colours and smiling faces at Newbury’s Holi celebration
Newbury held its largest-ever Holi celebration as 220 people gathered at St Bartholomew’s School to mark the ancient Hindu festival.
The vibrant event, known for its free-for-all colour-throwing, signifies the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil.
Organised by the local Hindu community of Newbury, the Holi celebration took place on Sunday, March 16, and it saw all attendees revel in the festivities.
The event began with an Indian cultural programme featuring traditional performances, followed by delicious snacks, and culminated in the highly anticipated coloured powder throwing.
Sanjeev Agarwala, a volunteer who helped organise the event, shared their excitement, stating: “By the end, people were unrecognisable, with colours smeared all over their faces.
“With the weather on our side, it was one of the most beautiful days, and enjoyment was at its fullest.
“With its record turnout and enthusiastic participation, this year’s Holi celebration in Newbury marked a joyous and memorable occasion for the local Hindu community and beyond.”
Holi, which holds deep religious significance in India, is rooted in Hindu mythology, particularly the legend of the god Vishnu, his devoted child follower Prahlad, and Prahlad’s tyrannical father, King Hiranyakashipu.
Hiranyakashipu resented his son’s devotion to Vishnu and subjected him to numerous cruel punishments.
The story culminates with Holika, a demoness and Prahlad’s aunt, attempting to burn him alive.
However, Vishnu intervened, saving Prahlad and vanquishing both Holika and Hiranyakashipu.
The festival is named after Holika and symbolises the triumph of devotion over oppression.
Holi festivities traditionally begin the night before with Holika Dahan, where a bonfire is lit, and offerings such as grains and coconuts – symbolising arrogance – are purified in the fire.
Participants gather around the bonfire, perform rituals and pray for the destruction of their inner evils, mirroring Holika’s fate.
The following day, the celebrations erupt in a burst of colours, honouring Vishnu’s victory and the eternal love of Radha and Krishna, the divine masculine and feminine aspects of god.
