Hot Like Pepper - Easter, Holi celebrations showcase TT's diversity - Health & Lifestyle

Health & Lifestyle : Easter, Holi celebrations showcase TT's diversity

2008/3/19 13:08:43

An example of the rich cultural and religious diversity of Trinidad and Tobago is currently on display with Holy Week running parallel with Phagwa. Christians are this week observing the days leading to the Good Friday crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and his glorious and momentous resurrection from the dead three days later.

The week was ushered in with Palm Sunday, symbolising the day that Jesus went in Jerusalem. Hindus are at this time celebrating Phagwa, or Holi, which marks the life and times of the saint Prahlad.

Pundit Balram Persad explained: "This is a time when we remember the faith of a little child named Prahlal, who saved an entire kingdom from shame and degradation."The singing of traditional patriotic and religious songs called chowtal is a hallmark of Phagwa, and there were several such activities since Sunday, involving kirtan groups made up of both young and old singers.

At one function at Debe, more than 60 groups participated. One visitor to a chowtal event at Claxton Bay said he was struck by the singing ability of the many participants and by the versatility of the young artistes. "They are extremely learned in their culture," he observed.
There was much merriment and excitement at the melodious groups, comprised mainly of female singers, entertained large audiences.

Sat Maharaj, general secretary of Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha, stated that Phagwa was "an occasion to sing and dance and showcase one of the many aspects of Indian culture held dearly among Hindus here in Trinidad.

"Throwing of abeer (a red liquid) is part of the celebrations, and this symbolizes fun, harmony and brotherhood. In India, where the observance originated, it is part of a joyous spring festival.

Pundit Persad summed up the relevance of Phagwa or Holi as marking "the burning of self-conceit, selfishness, greed, lust, hatred; in fact, all the undesirable demonic tendencies, propensities, thoughts and behaviours." The festival, he stated, is about "the victory of righteous forces over demoniacal forces."

For more on Holi visit About.com: Hinduism
As for Christians, the solemnity of the Easter message is at the centre of their faith. It represents the depth of God's love by having his son lay down his life for mankind.

Catholic Archbishop Edward Gilbert over the weekend urged Christians to teach children about the Bible. Other religious leaders exhorted their flock to honour the message of the season.

Christians on Monday celebrated St. Patrick’s Day, a religious feast in honour of the patron saint of Ireland.