Students throw colored powder at each other during Holi celebration

Holi

The Case Western Reserve University community is invited to the annual Holi event Saturday, April 7, from 1 to 4 p.m. on Freiberger Field.

Though primarily celebrated in India and Nepal, Holi is observed in many other countries throughout Southeast Asia and around the world. Originating in Hindu legend, Holi traditionally commemorated the act of the dark blue god Krishna applying color to the face of his soulmate. Known as being the festival of colors, Holi celebrations consist of the throwing of colored powders and waters at others.

The festival celebrates the arrival of spring (Basant) and thanksgiving for a good harvest, in addition to being seen as a day used for building relationships through play and laughter.

All faculty, staff, students and community members are invited to celebrate the free Holi festival with authentic Indian street food, games, colored powder, water guns, cricket and other traditions associated with Holi and Basant.

The first 100 Case Western Reserve University guests will receive a free kite, while the first 400 CWRU guests will receive a free T-shirt (CWRU ID needed to receive both giveaways).

Last year’s Holi celebration drew hundreds of Case Western Reserve University and community members to campus to celebrate.

The Center for International Affairs, First Year Experience, the Office of the Provost and the Office of Multicultural Affairs sponsor the event with support from many student groups, including the Undergraduate Indian Student Association, Kismat and Satrang.

For more information about the event and to learn about Holi and Basant, visit case.edu/international/programming/holi.html.

Those looking for more information or are interested in volunteering at the event can email Cami Ross at cami@case.edu.

Check out the Facebook event page.