Phagwah 2009

on March 15th, 2009 in Queens, NY, was the celebration of Holi (Phagwah), also know as, celebration of color, or celebration of good over evil. This event brought out over 30,000 people. Mayor of NY, Michael Boomberg, who marched along with the parade said, "I applaud the community for coming out in large numbers to support this Pagwah parade."

The parade started out on Liberty Avenue and 132nd Street with over twenty floats from various temples, each had their Kirtan group performing live Phagwah songs. The parade proceed to Smokey Park. On the stage, there were live performances from various Hindu temples. There were classical dances; Pandit Chunilall performance, Rang Barse; and a surprise, The Del-E-Nadan band from Trinidad.

Started 20 years ago with Guyanese community leader Pandit Ramlall, the Phagwah parade is enjoyed by many. "This event remans one of the biggest event outside of Guyana" said Pandit Chunelall Narine. Originally, it was attended by people of the Caribbean, but today it is an inclusive affair with large number of Indians and Americans supporters.

Here are photos taken by me Flickr.
Here are photos taken by Charlotte Chua Flickr.
Here are photos taken by Toast to Life Flickr.
Here are photos taken by Adam Pantozzi Flickr.
Here are photos taken by Jeff Flickr.
Here are photos taken by JonnyPants Flickr.
Here are photos taken by Christina Flickr.