Happy Holi!

Yesterday was Holi, the festival of colors. Learn more about the mythology behind the festival by clicking here.

I had no idea what to expect on Holi, so I threw on some old clothes and headed to the mess for a late breakfast. As I left the mess hall, a group of 7 male students arrived and coated me, as well as several other students, with powder. Each said "Happy Holi!" and then smeared color on my face and shoulders. We then headed over to the faculty housing area, and proceeded to go from house to house, greeting and coloring each faculty member. A few sweet custom that reminded me of trick-or-treating: knock on the door, say "Happy Holi!", powder the person, then accept sweets and salty snacks from the house.

The gang of guys I walked around with:


Umesh, who shares my office with me:


As we entered the center of the faculty residence area, utter chaos occurred. About 10 children ran around with buckets of water and squirt guns and doused the students and I in colored water (thankfully it was already 80 degrees outside, so the water felt pleasant). People (including faculty!) ran around, throwing powder and water, and offering sweets to one another on silver platters. Hugs were exchanged and people were laughing, dancing and singing in groups.

Myself with several faculty members:


I deeply admire the Indian ability to let loose and celebrate. All hierarchy of student versus faculty was forgotten, and people seemed to shower each other with genuine appreciation and admiration. Holi is now my official favorite holiday, and I hope to bring back the custom to the US when I return.