Overview

In recent years, Holi celebrations have attracted diverse audiences, highlighting the increasing visibility of Indian traditions

A large crowd gathered in Boston for a Holi celebration organized by the India Society of Worcester (ISW), reflecting the growing presence of Indian cultural festivals across communities in the United States.

The event featured live percussion, dance performances, and the traditional playing of colors (image source: Boston Chinese Photography Association)

Despite the cold weather, families, performers, and visitors turned out in strong numbers, with many staying for the full program. The event featured live percussion, dance performances, and the traditional playing of colors, creating a shared cultural experience for both the Indian diaspora and the wider public.

Holi, the festival of colors, marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes joy, renewal, and community bonding. In recent years, such celebrations have expanded across the United States, attracting diverse audiences and highlighting the increasing visibility of Indian traditions.

A woman celebrates Holi
In recent years, such celebrations have expanded across the United States, attracting diverse audiences (image source: Boston Chinese Photography Association)

The ISW Symphony Dhol-Tasha-Lezim group opened the program with high-energy drum performances, bringing together both experienced members and newcomers. The performance also marked a milestone for the group, which has completed 40 public appearances in under five years.

The program included a wide range of dance performances, from children’s group presentations to classical Kathak and traditional Lavani, showcasing the depth of talent within the community.

A man whistles as he plays a drum at a Holi celebration
Holi, the festival of colors, marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes joy, renewal, and community bonding (image source: Boston Chinese Photography Association)

Volunteer Prasanna Pawar reflected on the event’s success, saying, “What an incredible Holi celebration, especially in such cold weather. Despite the cold, so many people gathered in large numbers, and many stayed from start to finish. It was truly electrifying.”

Performer Aishwarya Mungarwadi emphasized the experience, noting, “The event was mesmerizing and very well planned. I enjoyed every bit of the performances, and there are many memories to cherish.”

Vishakha Khamankar highlighted the group’s continued growth, stating, “The bar gets higher every time, and the community is growing stronger and larger. It’s an inspiring team of dedicated and talented members.”

A group of peple celebrate Holi
Despite the cold weather, families, performers, and visitors turned out in strong numbers (image source: Boston Chinese Photography Association)

ISW General Secretary Kamlesh Khilnani addressed attendees, outlining the organization’s mission and its role in promoting Indian culture and community engagement across New England.

Jessy Haggard, representing the host venue, acknowledged the collaboration and cultural significance of the event, saying, “The drums, the dances, and the colors are an amazing representation of Holi. I had a great time watching all of you and hope to see you again next year.”

Organizers noted that more than 50 volunteers and performers contributed to the event, supporting programming, logistics, and coordination.

A man plays a drum at a Holi celebration
The drums, the dances, and the colors are an amazing representation of Holi (image source: Boston Chinese Photography Association)

Founded in 1963, the India Society of Worcester is a volunteer-run organization dedicated to promoting Indian culture, education, and community engagement. Events such as Holi and Diwali reflect a broader trend of Indian cultural celebrations gaining visibility across the United States.