Waldorf school traditionally celebrates festivals throughout the year that represent a variety of cultures and help to mark the transitions in seasons and ground us in the experience of the world around us. At Alabama Waldorf School, many of our celebrations are enhanced by teachers and parents in our community sharing their personal customs. We feel blessed to have preschool teacher, Ms. Sadhna, in our school family to help us learn about and celebrate Holi.
“Life Turns Colorful” when it’s time for Holi.
Holi is a joyful Hindu Spring Festival and celebration known as the Festival of Colors. It marks the end of the winter's darkness and calls for rejoicing in the bloom of spring time. Bright colors are everywhere as people throw “abeer” and “gulaal” (colorful powders) into the air, and on one another, to express their joy and mirth in the arrival of Spring.
Children take special delight in the festival - wanting to be the first to apply color to their family, friends, and neighbors. Nobody can miss being colored by them! Everyone will be various shades of the rainbow by the end of the day. Holi is a festival of FUN for the young and old alike. Songs, dances, and food are shared in excess to signify the burning away of selfishness, greed, hatred, and undesirable thoughts and behaviors. The tradition celebrates the victory of righteous forces.
Our very own Ms. Sadhna shares this tradition with our students each year through story, song, and of course, celebratory powder! Listen along as she shares the story of how Holi got its name, and a traditional holiday song, Holi Kheylein Raghuveera.
*Photos are from 2019
Eating sweet dishes is one way many celebrate Holi. Try this recipe for a sweet, delicious rice pudding dessert, Kheer.
Ingredients:
1/3 Cup Rice Soaked
1/2 Cup Sugar
2 ltr full fat milk
Dry chopped fruits for garnish
1. In a thick bottom pan, pour enough water to cover the bottom and heat over medium.
2. Once the water is hot add 2 liters of full fat milk. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently.
3. Lower the flame to simmer. Continue to stir and scrape the sides until the milk has reduced by almost half.
4. Add the soaked rice and continue stirring and scraping the sides until it is cooked, approximately 15 - 20 mins.
5. Add sugar, and mix well. Cook for an additional 7-8 minutes.
6. Garnish with dried fruit.