Dear Editor,
Will Hindus be ever able to regain the sanctity of the Holi festival? This is a question that is probably in the mind of many Hindus, having seen what transpired on March 18 last at the National Stadium in the name of the celebration described by the Guyana Times as the “brainchild” of the Culture Minister, Mr. Ramson and “coordinated” by W. R. Reaz who had this to say about the celebrations, “I feel excited to be part of this … we as people have been starved for entertainment and as such, congratulations to the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry for spearheading the event – one that as well received based on the huge turnout.”
The Times report further added, “Meanwhile, those who flocked the stadium were definitely in a party mood – dancing to every tune booming through the speakers. Waving and having a grand time was the order of the day.” Given all of this focus of entertainment and partying, I do not think anyone, including Mr. Ramson and the coordinator W.R. Reaz, should delude themselves into believing that they were participating in anything remotely Hindu.
We all know what “entertainment and partying” in a Guyanese context means. Certainly not without rum and music, as confirmed by persons I have spoken to who said they were involved in drinking and that they saw others doing the same. There was in fact no inhibition in this aspect of the partying and entertainment.
There are several prominent and influential Hindus who are part of the present administration and I am sure they cannot be happy with the degradation of Holi as was evident at the stadium. I appeal to them, in particular to the Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo, to use their influence to put an end to these mass celebrations and let the festival return to the local communities. I appeal to President Ali, a man of faith, a man who is solidly grounded in the local community, to heed this call. Let us not make Holi into another “Stink and Dutty” affair. If the sacredness is compromised then Holi becomes another carnival.
Yours faithfully,
Swami Aksharananda
