USHERING IN A SEASON OF CELEBRATION
At Made in India, we’re an eclectic combination of Indian and Australian. While we may tip our hat and nod ‘g’day, mate’ if we bump into you on the street, we could also be found doing the Bhangra at the nearest Indian festival celebrations, be it Holi or Diwali.
We are lovers of food, colour, vibrancy and joy. Given that it is our value system, it’s no surprise, perhaps, to know that we simply dig festivals. Of all kinds and shapes, no matter when they happen during the year, whether they’re Indian or Australian.
Because you see, we believe that there is so much negativity in the world today – and it seems to only grow with each passing day – that people should, in general, lighten up and surrender to festivities. Not only do festivals kindle that flame of delight inside our hearts, but they also reinforce all the good values of humanity: brotherhood, love, family, and respect for nature and all that is bigger in this universe than us.
We have Holi upon us in March, Baisakhi in April, and Akshaya Tritiya in May. The Indian festival season takes a break in the months of June and July before it kicks on a gear starting from Raksha Bandhan in August and hurtling on non-stop toward the end of the year and all the way till next March.
You may think that this gives you an excuse to give in to the drudgery of life, but we say no.
Thankfully for us, as the Indian calendar takes a breather, the Australian one springs to life.
Whether you’re into music, food, cabaret, the traditions and culture of the Aborigines in this great country, nature, indigenous art, cinema, theatre, folk dances and arts – you name it, and there is a festival in the next couple of months right here in Australia.
Nothing refreshes the mind and the soul better than short, periodic bursts of celebration with loved ones and family that reinstate our cherished values. It is the only way we can beat the constant barrage of despair and bad news that invade us from all corners these days. It is the only way to remind us that the good in the world is often within reach, and it often resides, dormant and waiting, deep within our hearts. So, we say, celebrate this Holi with panache, Gulal, and your loved ones. Gather round, burn Holika in a bonfire, and enjoy Gujhiya with your family and friends.
Happy Holi, Australia!
