Irish and Indian communities welcome spring

The Bihar Jharkhand Association of Ireland (BJAI) hosted its third annual multicultural celebration of Holi, the festival of colours, at the community centre in Caragh.

The event  brought together members of the community from various backgrounds to celebrate this joyous occasion. Bihar Jharkhand refers to parts of eastern India.

The event showcased the rich cultural diversity and spirit of unity within the Indian and Irish communities and  featured a multitude of activities and performances for all ages.

It began with the lighting of diyas (cup-shaped oil lamps) and the singing of the national anthems of India and Ireland. Among those present were Senator  Vincent P Martin, Naas Mayor Bill Clear, Deputy Mayor Seamie Moore, Cllrs Bob Quinn and Peggy O’Dwyer and Ciara Dunne, a local election candidate.

Children demonstrated their creativity and artistic skills through drawings and arts.

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There were performances of Indian and Irish songs, as well as traditional Holi folk songs and the highlight of the day was the Fagua, a traditional Bihari folk singing style associated with Holi and spring and a mix of music was provided by a DJ.

Traditional foods and delicacies were served.

But the main event was the traditional Holi playing, when participants joyfully smeared each other with vibrant colours, symbolising the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of spring.