The sixth annual Festival of Colors was held in Asanbai Park in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on July 3. The festival brings together young people who pay homage to the traditional Holi festival in northern India.
Kyrgyz Youth Celebrate Festival Of Colors In Bishkek
- By RFE/RL
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The sixth Festival of Colors was held in Asanbai Park in the Kyrgyz capital, Bishkek, on July 3.
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The Kyrgyz festival brings together young people who pay homage to the traditional Holi festival in northern India.
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Holi is an ancient Hindu festival that welcomes spring, as well as a new beginning in which people can let go of their inhibitions and start over.
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Participants at the Holi Festival throw powder dye into the air, covering everyone in attendance in vibrant colors.
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For some, washing off the dye at the end of the day can represent a renewed commitment to living well, as well as purification from evils and demons.
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In a religious context, the colors are rich in symbolism and have multiple meanings: They can represent a vibrant new life or even sin in some ways.
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The Bishkek festival, now in its sixth year, seeks to unite young people and celebrate the freedom of expression.
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