Holi festival participants throw color during the 2016 event. This
year's event is set for September 15.
Image credit - Lanthorn
Holi festival planned near carillon tower
Sep 7, 2017
Brent Smith, assistant professor of liberal studies
Image credit - Lanthorn
It may be close to fall, but a collaborative effort by campus departments will turn Friday, September 15, into a spring festival of colors.
A Holi festival, highlighted by throwing colored powder and water at each other, is planned from 4:30-6:30 p.m. near the Cook Carillon Tower; sponsors of the event include Religious Studies, Campus Interfaith Resources and the Indian Student Association.
Abhishek Ghosh, assistant professor of liberal studies and religious studies, said the festival had been initially planned for April, but organizers deemed it too cold at that time. "Having it in the fall is also a good way to welcome new students," Ghosh said.
The program, approved for LIB 100/201 courses, includes discussing the origins of Holi, sharing potluck food and throwing colors.
Ghosh said Holi is a centuries-old festival that has origins in India but quickly spread throughout other Pan-Asian countries. "Much like yoga, it's a gift from Hinduism to the world that has been adapted by other religions and cultures," he said.
He said the powder is made from organic materials but participants are encouraged to wear old clothes. Grand Valley's first Holi festival was held in 2016.
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