‘Holi Against Hindutva’: A Cautionary Tale Against Appropriation of Hindu Festivals for Political Purposes

The festival of Holi – also known as Phagwa in Bhojpuri-speaking and Hindu Caribbean communities – is a joyous celebration observed by millions of Hindus across the globe. A euphoric amalgamation of colors, music, and revelry, Holi/Phagwa signifies the triumph of good over evil, the arrival of spring, and the reinforcing of community bonds. 

Yet, even having a recorded history of 2,500 years, does not protect sacred Hindu festivals like Holi from appropriation and politicization, as recent events like the “Holi Against Hindutva” teach-in at Oberlin College shows. This piece aims to critique the approach taken by organizers of such events while celebrating the true essence of Holi/Phagwa and highlighting the dangers of stripping it of its millennia-old cultural context.

The “Holi Against Hindutva” event sparked predictable controversy by aiming to discuss political issues through the lens of Holi. While open discussions about political ideologies are important within a university, the co-option of a sacred festival as a platform for such criticism raises concerns. 

Hindutva, a political ideology, is a complex issue with its own distinct beliefs and context. However, conflating it with the joyous celebration of Holi disrespects the religious significance the festival holds for millions. Holi transcends political, class, language, national and religious boundaries and unites Hindus from various backgrounds, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and harmony.

No wonder then that many Hindus living across the U.S. were distressed at the Oberlin event. Community members and CoHNA volunteers from the surrounding Cleveland areas even staged a silent rally (photo above) outside the event to ensure this co-option did not go unchallenged. Ultimately even  a speaker quoted in the college newspaper agreed “..the title of the event could have been less provocative”.  

Critiques of Hindutva can, and should, be addressed through separate fora that allow for nuanced discussions, without politicizing ancient sacred traditions that have nourished and brought joy to millions of people through the ages, 

The traditions associated with Holi are often deeply personal and hold special significance for individual families. When festivals are reduced to mere spectacle for external consumption, these cherished customs risk losing their very meaning.

Cultural Appropriation and De-Spiritualization

This appropriation of Hindu festivals and practices isn’t a new phenomenon. Unfortunately, there have been instances where the deeper meanings and traditions associated with these festivals are overlooked in favor of superficial interpretations.

Holi, for example, is often reduced to just the throwing of colored powder, ignoring the sacred religious beliefs behind it. The legend associated with the festival narrates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon king Hiranyakashyap, who blinded by hubris, believed himself invincible. His son, Prahlad, a devotee of Perumal (of whom Krishna is a manifestation), challenged his father’s tyranny. Holika, Prahlad’s aunt, immune to fire, tricked him into entering a pyre. However, due to divine intervention, Prahlad emerged unharmed, while Holika perished in the flames. The throwing of colors symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, the destruction of arrogance, and the celebration of life.

Another important aspect of Holi is the concept of bhang, a cannabis-infused beverage traditionally consumed by devotees during the festival. Bhang holds a significant place in Hindu traditions, but its use is often sensationalized and misinterpreted. In reality, bhang is typically consumed in small quantities and has a mild psychoactive effect. Its consumption during Holi is meant to be a shared experience that fosters social interaction and a sense of communal joy. Focusing solely on Bhang without acknowledging the deeper significance of the festival paints an incomplete picture.

Ignoring the cultural context of Hindu festivals can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations. For instance, the act of throwing colored powder – gulal – can be misinterpreted as a chaotic act. However, gulal throwing signifies the playful breaking down of social barriers. It allows people from all walks of life to come together, regardless of caste, class, or background, and celebrate as equals. This fosters a spirit of unity and promotes social harmony within the community.

Furthermore, the traditions associated with Holi are often deeply personal and hold special significance for individual families. These traditions, passed down through generations, create a sense of belonging and strengthen one’s attachment to one’s cultural identity. When festivals are reduced to mere spectacle for external consumption, these cherished customs risk losing their very meaning.

In conclusion, the “Holi Against Hindutva” event serves as a cautionary tale against the appropriation of Hindu festivals for political purposes. Holi/Phagwa is a sacred and joyous celebration with an extensive history and cultural significance. Understanding and appreciating these complexities is key to respecting the traditions and beliefs of millions of Hindus worldwide. Open discussions are vital for addressing political issues, but such discussions should be conducted in appropriate forums, allowing Holi to remain a vibrant symbol of inclusivity, joy, and the triumph of good over evil.

Let us celebrate the true spirit of Holi – a festival that transcends political ideologies and unites communities through a dazzling array of colors, traditions, and shared experiences.

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Kylie Madhav is a DEI practitioner based in New York City. Over her career, she has worked on behalf of immigrant and LGBT communities in New York, the Dominican Republic and Mumbai. Kylie holds an MBA, MSW and a BA in Linguistics and Law & Society. She is fluent in French, English, Spanish and Haitian Kreyòl and enjoys delving into the extensive literary canon of her fifth language: Tamil.