ATLANTA, GEORGIA, USA, March 22, 2008: With the blessing of a glorious warm and sunny weather, Alpharetta played host to the Festival of Colors this spring of 2008. Lions Pavilion at Wills Park, Alpharetta was a colorful scene as 700 people including youngsters, children and elders celebrated Holi.
This was the third year when SewaUSA, a non-profit global service organization, the USA affiliate of Sewa International, had organized Holi for the Indian community in metro Atlanta. The crowd turnover was double as of last year, which which underlined the popularity of the occasion. The event was co-sponsored by Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh and VHP-America, Atlanta Chapters, Hot Breads and Canton Street Insurance Inc.
Evergreen Holi themed songs filled the air alternating with the latest Bollywood dance numbers. In the midst of music and masti, participants smeared each other with handfuls of color. A unique new feature of this year’s Holi celebration was that SewaUSA provided organic colors (tested for lead content in Chemical Lab) made with natural ingredients instead of the commonly available synthetic colors. The natural ingredients ensured that everyone including young children could use it without restrictions. And use it they did.
The enthusiasm of the people reached its peak as the clear skies and pleasant weather encouraged the festivities. While the crowd rocked to the music, adding to the festive mood was authentic Thandai prepared and served by VHP Atlanta volunteers.