ST LOUIS: Holi, Festival of Color, is one of the major festivals of India signifying victory of good over evil, revival of life, and spreading of joy and happiness through colors. Bal Vihar of St. Louis celebrated its Holi function on Saturday, March 3 in St. Louis, with gaiety and fervor
The Bal Vihar families gathered at Mahatma Gandhi Center (MGC) for this major celebration. The weather had warmed up and was quite welcoming for an outdoor event. Everyone had lunch that was followed by a short speech on significance of Holi.
The children were the most enthusiastic in the huge gathering. One could see the enthusiasm in the environment as children were running around throwing colors at their parents, friends and anyone they knew. Adults could be seen applying colors to the faces and greeting each other. Within half an hour, most of them were covered in multiple colors from head to toe.
It is the volunteers of Bal Vihar that make the organization so great. The selfless service put in by the teachers, administrative staff and all other parent volunteers make Bal Vihar the organization it is today. As Bal Vihar nears 25 successful years, the popularity has grown with over 425 students now attending classes every other Sunday. Classes are focused on their overall cultural development that includes Bhajan, Yoga and regular curriculum that includes teachings on India, its states, history, culture, neighbors etc.
Raj Iyer