The blacktop is alive with music and movement, as clouds of color burst overhead. People laugh as their friends and family smear gulal on their faces, grabbing their own bag and chasing them down to playfully retaliate. Everyone from young children to staff members participate, filling the air with the sound of laughter and music. Such a scene is only present once a year at the school, during the BIF Holi Event.
Holi is the Hindu festival of colors and love, marking both the arrival of spring as well as the triumph of good over evil. Some areas of India also consider Holi to be a time when old grudges are dropped and relationships are strengthened with joy and forgiveness. Perhaps the most recognizable tradition of Holi is the throwing of gulal—brightly colored powder.
“People who are not aware of Holi sometimes think the colors aren’t safe, or [that] they won’t get out…But these colors are friendly and organic; it’s basically cornstarch [with] food coloring,” said Deepesh Chouhan, a parent volunteer who organized the event.
The festival is primarily celebrated in India and Nepal, and dates back nearly 2,000 years. The BIF Holi event, however, only started three years ago, when BIF parent volunteer Deepesh Chouhan proposed the idea to the school because he felt it was important for kids to experience such festivals.
“It’s important for children to be exposed to the cultures of Asia,” said Chouhan. “And [to] take a break from their hectic schedule and enjoy this spring festival.”
Chouhan helped organize the event by bringing supplies such as the gulal, coordinating food trucks, and hiring the DJ.
“Organizing the event takes around 2 months…less than the Diwali event,” he said. “The hardest part is actually convincing people to come: they do not know about the colors [being safe]...or students prioritize academic activities over a break.”
Beyond the colors and festivities, the event provides a unique opportunity for students to see their teachers in a more relaxed setting. Outside of the classroom, teachers are able to relax, have fun, and fully participate in the celebration alongside their students.
“I absolutely love colors. Holi is such a beautiful tradition,” said Ms. Rangoli. “And celebrating with great music and friends made it a truly memorable experience.”
Overall, the BIFU Holi event is a fun and meaningful way for the community to come together, celebrate culture, and enjoy a day full of laughter and color. Above all, none of it would be possible without the dedication of parent volunteers, whose hard work makes the celebration possible each year.
“Students get to learn about Indian culture and tradition,” said Ms. Rangoli. “Such celebrations build the school community and send a message that [our] school values diversity and inclusion.”