Abstract

The Phagwa festival, mainly referred to as Holi or festival of colours, was first introduced to the Indo-Fijian society during the Indenture period in the 18th century. It is celebrated after the lunar month of Phalgun or simply known as ‘Faag’, which is the last month of the Hindu calendar. In Fiji, the Phalgun period is from February to March but the singing of the folksong (Faag) begins at least two to three weeks prior to the festival. The celebration holds great cultural and historical significance implying the victory of good over evil related to the story of Prince Prahlad and his devotion to Lord Vishnu. The celebration includes singing of Faag by various ‘village groups’ (mandali’s) known as the Faagmandali’s, making of variety of sweets, lighting of bonfires and smearing of powdered and water colours in fun and harmony. In a multi-lingual country like Fiji, Holi is no longer considered as the festival of Hindus but is widely recognized by people of all different religious backgrounds demonstrating the multiplicity of Fiji’s unique heritage. Thus, this research paper seeks to emphasize on how Phagwa (Holi) is celebrated as a community festival in Fiji. It will also accentuate on the history, rituals, advancements and the cultural significance of celebrating the festival.

Keywords: Phagwa, Holi, Diaspora, Multi-Lingual, Community festival, Chutkulas, Chutaals, Rang