Newsletter

Holi with SASA and ASU

By Eva Jo McIlraith

April 23, 2026

Campus friends gathered on the afternoon of Sunday, April 11th to celebrate Holi as a community. South Asian Student Association (SASA) and Asian Student Union (ASU) joined forces to bring together a fantastic event to Babbitt Pavillion. Holi, widely known as the vibrant Hindu festival of colors, marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes renewal, joy, and the triumph of good over evil. Rooted in centuries-old traditions, the festival carries deep cultural and spiritual significance. Its origins are traced to Hindu mythology, particularly the story of the young devotee Prahlad, whose unwavering faith allowed him to survive the cruelty of his father, King Hiranyakashipu, and the deadly scheme of his aunt Holika, who attempted to burn him alive. Prahlad’s survival represents the victory of devotion and righteousness over arrogance and evil. Holi also celebrates the playful and loving relationship between Radha and Krishna, embodying themes of divine love, unity, and the joyful blending of differences. 

The Hamilton community embraced these traditions with enthusiasm, bringing the spirit of holi to life through laughter, color, and connection. The celebration featured the iconic throwing of colored powders, known as gulal, filling the air with bright bursts of pink, yellow, green, blue, and purple. Jovial conversation dissolved into playful chaos, as attendees engaged in spirited chases and the flinging powder. Faces, clothes, and the earth became canvases of swirling hues, reflecting the festival’s message of equality and togetherness, where social boundaries dissolved and joyful expression took hold.

In addition to students, staff, and faculty, President Steven Tepper was also in attendance, enjoying the festivities and supporting student organizers. Attendees then enjoyed a feast of food catered from Minar, savoring a variety of beloved dishes such as crispy samosas, flavorful paneer, and the iconic butter chicken. The meal concluded on a sweet note with Gulab Jamun, a classic dessert that complemented the festive atmosphere. Altogether, the event was not only a celebration of Holi but also an opportunity for the campus community to come together, learn, and appreciate a tradition that emphasizes joy, resilience, and unity.