/Random: Omfg Zombies! Happy Phagwah

[19 Mar 2006 | Sunday]

Omfg Zombies! Happy Phagwah

Current mood:

crazy

17th Annual Holi Parade: Phagwah in Richmond Hill

Living in a predominantly Indian/Punjai/Guyanese/Trinidadian neighborhood has been a colorful experience. Being hispanic I have always been the outsider, looking in. Growing up, while attending Elementary and Junior High school, I always resented the fact that I was the "minority." Now that I think about it, perhaps that was best. Language and culture is a fascinating thing. If it weren't for S. Richmond Hill I wouldn't have been exposed to Indian culture or their food. Mmmmmm.... ::Drools:: Spicey.. <3 Anway back to what I was saying! A few days ago while on the bus I noticed some kids throwing powder on each other. Right away I knew that it was time for Phagwah.

In the past I've spoken about Phagwah, and people often become bewildered. Not many people know of it, as it's a Hindu or local thing. On the weekend of Phagwah we have a parade along Liberty Ave with floats. Unfortunately, you will most probably not see it in the newspapers. :(

Phag-waahh? Holi or Phagwah is an annual Hindu spring festival, in India and Nepal. Phagwah takes place over two days around late March or early April. It is a celebration also of the Hindu New Year, as Chaitra is the first month of the Hindu Year. It is also called the Festival of Colour. The celebrations officially usher in spring, the celebrated season of love. On the second day, known as Dhulandi, people go around until afternoon throwing colored powder and water at each other, although the powder stings the eyes. People invite each other to their houses for feasts and celebrations later in the evening.

This year I wanted to be a baby and not participate. I don't want to get pelted and look like a zombie! lol People of all ages participate, and it's all in good (clean) fun. Sometimes people toss the powder from their window as they drive by! Be warned, and dont wear a white shirt during our Holi. Here are some pics that I took while in da 'hood yo. I didn't have my digi, so you'll have to live with my cell pics.

Later guys! I'm out to go eat some Samosa's with Chutney. Happy Phagwah!
~Izzy

P.S. I bought a pair of jeans today- size 12! (I was a size 16, a few months ago.) We also bought an ultra cool cd/photo-printer today! Epson Stylus Photo R340 Inkjet Printer. YAY! ::Claps::