It was another magnificent staging of the Phagwah Parade on Liberty Avenue and the jamboree at Smokey Park. The cosmopolitan neighbourhood of Richmond Hill saw an ethnic mosaic for the celebration last Sunday afternoon, bringing together thousands in a sea of colours. People turned out to proudly display their culture. Non-Indians were seen in the parade clapping and dancing to the rhythmic tunes.
Thousands also lined Liberty Avenue. Hundreds of people of various nationalities, from their verandahs and in front of their businesses cheered the participatants as the parade marched a mile from 133rd Street on Liberty Ave to 124th Street and 95th Ave, culminating at the Smokey Park. The parade was put together by the Hindu Parades and Festival Committee headed by Spiritual Advisors Dharamcharyas Ramlall and Rishi Misir. The celebration has become popular since it was started in 1990, with people joining in the joy of throwing abeer and various colours of powder to mark this festival. They smeared each other’s faces with coloured powder. People hugged each other wishing “Happy Holi” as a dozen floats made their way with groups singing and dancing behind to the accompaniment of dholak drums, tassa, and loud chowtaal music. Revellers waved the flags of their home country.
At the park, there was a cultural variety show and speeches from leading politicians and community leaders. Many singers and dancers performed on stage. It has become an annual tradition for the Hindu Seva led by Pandit Radharam Upadhyaya, to treat the crowd to hot beverage and snacks during the cold weather. Another Guyanese also distributed snacks to individuals.
