Celebrating Holi at Rishikul Yogshala: A Colorful Experience
Indian culture is renowned for its vibrant and lively traditions, and one of its most cherished festivals is Holi, the festival of colors. Celebrated on the full moon day of the Phalgun month according to the Hindu calendar, Holi embodies the spirit of joy and unity.
Recently, Rishikul Yogshala celebrated this festival with enthusiasm at our Kerala school. Here’s an account of the festivities from one of our beloved students, Emma.
Evening Bonfire Ceremony
The Holi celebrations at Rishikul Yogshala began on Holi Eve with a traditional evening bonfire ceremony.
After our evening meal, students, teachers, friends, and visitors gathered in the school’s garden for the pre-Holi bonfire ceremony, led by Guru Ji (our Brahman Priest) and some of the teachers.
On a small table in front of the large pyre, we had offerings of flowers and spices for the Puja, along with four large plates of colored powder for the much-anticipated ‘color play’ after the bonfire was lit. Guru Ji and two teachers stood by, ready to start.
The ceremony commenced with a harmonious sequence of group mantras, including three Om chants, the Ganesh Mantra, and the Guru Mantra, followed by an explanation from Vimal Ji, the school’s philosophy teacher. He described Holi as “The Festival of Colours,” symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the light that prevails over darkness. As Guru Ji began his chanting prayers, the pyre was lit ceremoniously.
The warmth of the fire was a comfort on the cool night. The ritual turned into a joyful frenzy of fun with loud Punjabi hits, dance moves, and vibrant color-bombing, continuing late into the night.
Holi Day – Festival of Colors
On Holi Day, everyone was eager to join the celebrations. For many, the fun began early, with morning sunbathing and meditation interrupted by playful color attacks from fellow students. Local monkeys, mistaking the colored powders for food, were humorously disappointed.
After retrieving the color bags from the cheeky monkeys, we enjoyed a special Holi sweet at breakfast and then headed to the garden for more color play and dancing. The air was filled with vibrant dust, laughter, and cheerful “Happy Holi” shouts.
The celebration spread throughout Kerala, with Rishikul Yogshala students in other locations joining together for a grand color-bomb disco. The journey through village lanes and Laxman Jhula was a colorful adventure, complete with water-bombs, paint, and playful street party goers.
Arriving at our party destination, we exchanged colorful hugs, danced, enjoyed colorful sweets, and savored tea. Some basked in the sun, while others joined the street party and visited the nearby Ganga.
In summary, the Holi celebrations at Rishikul Yogshala were a joyful explosion of color, music, and play, leaving everyone with lasting memories of a vibrant festival.
Conclusion
Holi at Rishikul Yogshala was a spectacular celebration of color, unity, and joy. From the traditional bonfire ceremony to the lively color play and dancing, the festival embodied the spirit of happiness and togetherness. If you’re looking to experience such vibrant celebrations and explore yoga and wellness in India, consider joining our 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in Kerala, 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training in Kerala, or 500-hour Yoga Teacher Training in Kerala. You can also enrich your experience with our Ayurveda Retreat in Kerala or a Yoga Retreat in Kerala. Celebrate life, learn, and grow with us!
