The Holi Festival is just around the corner.
This bright, festive holiday marks the triumphs of good over evil in Hindu culture.
Messy, yet vibrant, Holi is considered one of the most spectacular celebrations in the world.
Devotees of Lord Krishna and other members of the community and ethnic groups are welcome at Sri Sri Radha Giridhari Temple owned and managed by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISCON) on Sunday, March 31 between 2 pm and 8 pm.
According to the Hindu religion, Lord Krishna loves to play pranks on girls by covering them with water and bright colours.
Hence, a huge part of Holi is the dumping of coloured powders and scented water on people during a bonfire, resulting in a bold, bright display of tie-dyed humans that many tourists visit Vrindavan (also spelt Brindavan) Gardens in Braj, a small town in the Mathura District of the North Indian State of Uttar Pradesh.
Holi Festival 2013 would not have been possible without Lord Vishnu, the main Vedic God of Preservation, who protected people against demons.
In an attempt to kill Holika, the sister of Hiranyakashipu, Prahlad (the latter’s son), sits with her in a pyre. Lord Vishnu protects the young Prahlad, killing Holika.
The bonfire at Holi celebrations is a reflection of the pyre that consumed Holika.
The religious tale is the basis of Holi, reminding Hindus of the power of good over evil, as well as the boons bestowed by Lord Vishnu when His followers remain faithful.
The Temple is located at 1229, Coatesville-Riverhead Highway, about 25 kms from the Auckland City Centre.
Further details be obtained over phone (09) 4128075
Email: infor@harekrishna.org.nz
Raja Venkatesh is a banker by profession and a volunteer at ISKON.
