For years I’ve seen pictures, advertisements and promotions for this springtime event at the Krishna temple–and every year I’ve missed it for some lame reason or another. Well we finally made it. And, yes, it was everything I was hoping it would be, in case you’re wondering.
If you want to learn more about the history and origin of Holi, read this cop-out Wikipedia entry. Otherwise, understand that it boils down to a friendly Woodstock-like atmosphere where it’s socially acceptable (in fact strongly encouraged) to toss brightly colored chalk at complete strangers. Especially after a climactic countdown that follows the burning of a witch effigy (and chanting “hare krishna” a million times).
We actually would have blown it again had it not been for Leah and Jonny, who kindly invited us the night before. Luckily for us, Jonny was a seasoned veteran, who not only knew the back roads to avoid the ridiculous traffic, but also knew where to buy chalk at a fraction of the price they charge at the event.
Within minutes of arriving my white shirt became a multi-colored canvas. We settled into the crowd, took pictures and participated in some “hare krishna” chanting along with the crowd, MC and band. I can tell you now I’ve never been so grateful for nose hair and eyelashes. For all the chalk that was thrown around, however, it was remarkably bearable. We ran into a bunch of old friends and enjoyed ourselves immensely…it’s easy to see why the event gets steadily bigger every year.
[before]
[after]
I can see my truck!
i knew you guys would finally run off and join a cult!
They ask that yo not bring your own chalk because: a. this is a huge funding event for them, and b. they get imported chalk that is made for this. Do you really think plumb line construction chalk is something you want to inhale?
Thanks for the comment, Bria – we’ll keep that in mind next time we go.