CHICAGO: It was an affair to remember at Lake County Hindu temple on Sunday March 17 when a cross section of Indian community from practically all parts of India gathered to celebrate Holi – a great Hindu festival known also for its play of color and Holika Dahan.
The freezing temperature notwithstanding, over 1200 people from all age groups and different Indian communities along with some enthusiastic American students played colors. With a bizare abundance of bright colors, which are astonishing for the eyes, it seemed the world went crazy here. One could see a multi-colored haze in the sky, and a rainbow appeared over it in the sunshine.
Loud conversations, bursts of laughter, triumphant screams, and reflective cries were heard from everywhere. Children in color smeared clothing and painted faces gathered in small laughing groups, and then chased each other running around in the open area. Others were dancing to the tunes of DJ and Punjabi Dhol played by Mr Atwal and Ajay Ghai.
The crowd was shouting “Holi Hai Bhai Holi Hai; Bura na mano Holi Hai” in a chorus. Holi means a joyous celebration, seeing bright colors, getting mixed and becoming one. It’s a celebration of oneness.
By 11:45, Pandit Anil Joshi Ji performed offering of special colorful uttariyas and chunniyas and Gulals to Radha-Krishna, Ram Parivar and Balaji along with all other deities with chanting of different Mantras and Slokas followed by Nevedyam, Archana and Maha Mangalarati.
This was followed by a jubilant dance program performed by students of Academy of Kathak Dance run by Kiran Chauhan. The theme of the dance program was Shri Radha-Krishna Holi Raas that entertained people for more than two hours. The whole event was managed by Neera Dhoom. By 3:00 pm, Holika Dahan was performed by Joshi Ji with traditional rituals and he blessed all the devotees for their colorful and joyful future and bid them play colors and enjoy the day.
Indian traditional Holi delicacies with mouthwatering sweets and Mango lassi was offered as a Holi special lunch by the temple Kitchen Committee head Kama Gupta and his dedicated volunteers. President Dr Harsh Kumar gave vote of thanks to all participants and devotees for their fervor and passion for the Holi festival.
Geetha Patil
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