The Head of one of the biggest Hindu organisations in the country has cancelled public Holi celebrations in light of the massacre in Christchurch, New Zealand.

The national president of the Shree Sanatan Dharam Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji, Sarju Prasad, said they stood in solidarity with the rest of the world in condemning the shootings, which killed 50 people from two mosques.

“The heinous attack on our Muslim brothers and sisters will never be condoned by any religion of the world,” Mr Prasad said.

“This is very much against the beliefs and thinking of the Hindu communities and in the context of the essence of Holi.

“We call upon all our Muslim brothers and sisters to trust Allah and pray to him for solace and patience.

“We at this time of Holi celebrations extend to them our deepest condolences and pray for the souls of those who have died in this terrorist attack.

“We also pray that God gives understanding to all our people in this nation and the world as a whole to live in love and harmony with each other.

“That is the teaching of Holi and the teaching of all religions in this world.

“As a result of this terrorist attack we will not have large this year.

“All our public celebrations have been cancelled, but I do urge the

people to celebrate Holi in their mandalis and pray that there will be peace and love amongst all humankind.”

Meanwhile all Hindu faith-based schools will be closed on Holi Day, tomorrow.

“I urge all the parents and teachers to celebrate Holi in a usual way and for those children who will not be celebrating Holi can join.

“My advice to the students is not to move around unnecessarily.

The community Police will be vigilant to see that no harm is done to any community.

“I wish all a Happy Holi and my condolences go to those who are mourning the death of loved ones.”

What is Holi

Holi, otherwise widely known as the festival of colours or festival of love is a Hindu spring festival.

It signifies the victory of good over evil, the arrival of spring, end of winter, and for many a festive day to meet others, play and laugh, forget and forgive, and repair broken relationships.

Various colours and water are thrown on each other, amidst loud music, the beating of drums and lots of merrymaking to celebrate Holi.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa