Phagwa is Colour, vibes and Unity

Temples and venues will come alive with vibrant celebrations of Phagwa/Holi. While Phagwa is today (March 14), the celebrations will continue over the weekend.

Phagwa represents the triumph of good over evil and positive over negative, said pundit Navin Omadath Maharaj, president of the SDMS Pundits Parishad and spiritual leader of the Munroe Road Hindu Temple,

This colourful festival was brought to Trinidad and Tobago by indentured labourers from Bihar, India, in 1845.

Maharaj said the festival is traditionally observed in late Phalgun and early Chaitra (March-April).

“Phagwa is one of Hinduism’s most joyful festivals, marked by the playful scattering of brightly-coloured powders (

gulaal) and liquids, known as abeer, among participants in open spaces,” he said.

The festival also features the spirited singing of chowtaal, an energetic folk tradition that adds to the merriment of the occasion.

One of the highlights is the annual Primary Schools’ Chowtaal Sammelan, organised by the Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha. On March 8, the competition was hosted at the Lakshmi Girls’ auditorium, where 43 schools showcased their musical talents. Ramai Trace Hindu Primary School placed first.

“Chowtaal is an animated and rhythmic form of folk singing and an integral part of Phagwa celebrations. It gained prominence with the arrival of Indian labourers, who brought this tradition with them,” Maharaj said.

Prior to Phagwa celebrations, chowtaal groups sing fervently and rituals surrounding the Holika (bonfire) are done – sticks are placed on a bonfire pyre three times a day, gradually constructing the symbolic effigy of Holika. Read More