Readying For Festival Of Holi
Charity club in Koronivia, Nausori hosted a ‘Faag’ Contest, The competition is to keep the tradition of ‘faag’ songs alive, which is a lead up to the Holi festival. It was also to raise funds for the Naleba Mariama Temple in Labasa which was damaged by cyclone.
Monday 22 March 2021 | 12:03
People attending the faag competing at Koronivia in Nausori on March 21, 2021. Photo: Leon Lord
Next week, Hindus all over the world celebrate Holi – the Festival of Colours.
The lead up to the festival starts with singing of faag songs. These are traditional and religious songs.
A charity club based in Koronivia in Nausori hosted a ‘Faag’ Competition yesterday. While the practice keeps the traditional and cultural practices alive, the competition was also aimed at raising funds .
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The King Kong Charity and Social Club assistant secretary and competition organiser Jitendra Prakash said the competition was in aid of the Naleba Mariama Temple in Labasa, which was damaged by Cyclone Yasa.
“This competition is to also keep alive the practice of ‘faag’ in these new generation and learn of its importance,” he said.
“At the same time, we want to raise funds to help with the rebuilding and renovation of our temple in Labasa.”
The group has been formed with the vision to bring happiness, empowerment, and livelihood to the underprivileged.
Faag Utsav is a celebration done prior to welcoming Holi, the festival of colours and love.
Participants sing special songs called ‘Faag’ which celebrate the triumph of good over evil.
“This competition is one of the many projects that we have done to help give back to the community,” Mr Prakash said.
The competition was held at the Kabutri Drive Hall in Koronivia.
What is Holi?
Holi is a popular ancient Hindu festival. It is known as the Festival of Spring, the Festival of Colours, and the Festival of Love.
It originated and is predominantly celebrated in India, but has also spread to other regions of Asia and parts of the Western world through the diaspora from the Indian subcontinent.
Holi celebrates the arrival of spring, the end of winter, the blossoming of love, and for many, it is a festive day to meet others, play and laugh, forget and forgive, and repair broken relationships.
The festival also celebrates the beginning of a good spring harvest season. It lasts for a night and a day, starting on the evening of the Purnima (Full Moon day) falling in the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna.
In Fiji, many Hindus take a break from work and school as they celebrate the day singing, dancing and playing with colours.
Suva and other townships would even get a glimpse of the floats that may be organised on the day.
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