The Holi Saga

The Holi Saga was an event hosted by Little India, Cooking Asia, and the Bridge for Diversity, Equity, & Social Justice on April 14. The event ran from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on the Friedman Green Space.

Holi is a popular festival in India. It signifies divine love, the celebration of spring, and the triumph of good over evil. According to Manika Chakerverty, President of Little India, “It’s vibrant, it’s colorful, it’s refreshing.” She explained that she wanted to bring a piece of home here to JWU with the Holi Saga. “It's a day of acceptance. Everyone is welcome to celebrate, and we’re hoping to spread joy and happiness and hospitality and love, like we do in India.”

After signing in, people could grab a drink from one of the stations or go directly to the table with paint. There were bags with red, pink, orange, blue, yellow, and green powder, which people threw in the air.

There were points when it looked like colorful fogs had set in on the Friedman Green Space. People threw powder everywhere and at others. There were also bins with water guns for people to fire. As more folks arrived for the event, the faster the powder supply dried up.

The Holi Saga was a collaboration between Little India, the Bridge Center, and Cooking Asia, who provided the food and drinks like Mango Lassi and Thandai, a milk beverage that’s traditionally served at Holi. People formed a long line to try different Pakoras, which are fritters. Aloo Pakora, thin potato slices that’re deep-fried. Onion Pakora, which had deep-fried onions. Spinach Pakora, which had deep-fried spinach leaves. There was Mirchi Pakora, which had deep-fried green chili peppers. There was also Kalakand, a dessert with a sweet milk-like taste. Everything was served on small paper plates.

Sanvi Shetty, a Sophomore and the Social Media chair for Little India, was asked for her thoughts on the Holi Saga. She said, “Events like Holi are cultural festivals, they make us feel like we’re home.” She was happy to see people from all walks of life coming together for the event. “I’m truly grateful to Johnson & Wales for putting together this whole event and for everyone else supporting us, for making this a successful event.” 

Everyone who participated was covered from head to toe in colors. Some were even drenched like they were tossed into a pool. In more ways than one, people were able to get a taste of a new culture.