In last week’s whole school assembly, Mrs Winchester spoke to the children about the festival of Holi, one of the most joyful celebrations in the Hindu faith. Celebrated each March, Holi marks the arrival of spring and is widely known as the Festival of Colour. It symbolises new beginnings and celebrates the triumph of love and good over evil.

Originally celebrated in Northern India and Nepal, Holi is now observed by communities all around the world. Mrs Winchester explained that the festival is celebrated in many different ways. On the eve of Holi, bonfires are traditionally lit to represent the burning away of negativity.

The children were particularly interested to learn that the tradition of sharing coloured powder is rooted in stories from Hindu tradition and has grown to represent much more. Today, placing colour on one another’s faces is a joyful expression of friendship, equality and togetherness. During Holi, social barriers are set aside as people of all ages and backgrounds come together in celebration, laughter and unity.

The assembly was a wonderful celebration of culture, community and new beginnings. The whole school is looking forward to celebrating together at the end of the month, when all children will be taking part in our much-anticipated Colour Run—an exciting event sure to bring our whole community together in a spectacular splash of colour.