Dear Editor,
Inspire Inc. held a grand Phagwah Festival, 2013 at the National Stadium on March 27th, 2013. It was no doubt well turned out and saw persons from a diverse background taking part in the colourful celebration. Indeed, occasions like these must be encouraged, as they truly permit an avenue for unity and goodwill; family entertainment and laughter.
However, there are many grave concerns and issues that must be addressed and fixed, particularly, if such events are planned for the future of Holi, whether by Inspire Inc., or other entertainment bodies/organizations.
Clearly, the sacred principles encompassing Holi cannot be compromised. It is a Hindu religious occasion—that of course consists of a dual nature—spiritual and social, both of which must be centred on Hindu culture and tradition. Anything outside of this goes to not only tamper with Hindu ideals, but to as a whole, insult the rich Hindu cultural legacy and project a false impression of Hindu festivals.
At the above event a variety of issues that must not be swept under the carpet were observed. These are: 1. Dress code; 2. Sale of alcohol beverages; and 3. Type of music/entertainment.
Phagwah Festival, 2013 saw people with inappropriate dresses that one may never want to have their children see at such an event. It begs the questions: has Phagwah become an occasion for body shows? Is it really a religious holiday? A suitable solution to this could be a formal dress code for future events of such nature, which must be adhered to. (Please note, I have no problem with what people wear, but as it regards the event, there must be decency).
Though it was publicized that the event was to be alcohol free, at the gate, persons attending were greeted with vendors selling alcohol beverages. Men and women were seen in the ground consuming same. Was it legal to do so? And, of course, why Inspire Inc. allowed same? Is this the way Phagwah should be celebrated? Editor, moving further on this issue, I wish to concur with a recent letter in KN questioning why Hindu holidays are not alcohol free, as some other religious holidays where the sale of alcohol is prohibited by statute.
Issue number 3 deals with the type of music and entertainment that are promoted for a Hindu religious occasion. All music/entertainment featuring events like the above must be only centred on Hindu cultural makeup. A Chowtaal Competition was featured on the Inspire Inc. platform and that sits well for the occasion, very appropriate indeed, but the stage also carried some items (songs) that were not only inappropriate for Phagwah, but for families as well. This has to be regulated.
I am optimistic that the issues highlighted will be taken by Inspire Inc. and other potential hosts of similar events in the most positive of ways, as it is true that it cannot be denied such events are needed. Myself, the Hindu communities which I lead and I am sure other right minded Hindus and Guyanese look forward for many more Phagwah Festivals, but of course it is keenly hoped the above issues will be rectified.
Yours faithfully,
Pandit Charranlall Nandalall
