The Colors of Holi: A New Perspective
In a quiet corner of New Jersey, Tom, a sixth grader, was invited by his best friend, Aman, to celebrate Holi, an Indian festival. Excited yet nervous, Tom arrived at Aman s house and was immediately greeted by the lively ambience and smell of homemade sweets. Aman explained that Holi is also known as the Festival of Colors . It originates from Hindu mythology and signifies the triumph of good over evil. The festival starts with a Holika Dahan where people gather around a bonfire, sing, and dance, symbolizing the burning of negative energies. Next day, armed with bags full of various colored powders and water guns, they charged at each other playfully, coating everyone in a vibrant palette. Laughter echoed through the air as the neighborhood turned into a canvas of joy. After the colorful mayhem, everyone indulged in traditional sweets like Gujiya . Aman s father explained that Holi is a time to forgive, renew relationships, and embrace unity and brotherhood. As Tom, colorful from head to toe, reflected on the day’s events, he realized Holi was more than just a festival. It was a lesson about love, unity, and the power of good.