Celebrating Holi – ‘the festival of colors’ in Busan

People throw colors in the air as the countdown reaches zero. (Photo: Anuj Madan)

If there’s one Hindu festival that even non-Hindus love to celebrate, it is Holi. Holi is a spring festival in India and Nepal where people play with colors. Due to its playful nature, it has spread in popularity all across the world. Wherever Hindus reside, you are sure to find Holi festivals.

In South Korea, an annual Holi festival has been held in Busan for many years. This year was my first time to attend it. The ‘festival of colors’ began at the Haeundae beach on Saturday morning, April 3.

Locals and foreigners from all over Korea gathered at the beach, all wearing white t-shirts and tops and huge smiles which showed their excitement. Soon enough, the countdown started. 10… 9… 8… 7… 6… 5… 4… 3… 2… 1… and everybody screamed in joy “Holi haiiiiii!” (It’s Holi) as they jumped and threw colors in the air and on each other. Music played and everyone danced to the catchy Bollywood beats. For a few hours, it didn’t matter whether you understood the songs or not. It was all about the energy, the passion, spreading love with friends and strangers alike, and celebrating life in this carousel of colors. (written by Rahul Aijaz)

Photographs by Anuj Madan

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People throw colors in the air as the countdown reaches zero.

A girl writes ‘Holi hai’ (It’s Holi) with colors on the beach.

It’s party time!

A bottle of Jameson and colors to celebrate the occasion of Holi.

A group of friends take a selfie.

Holi hai!