Durban, South Africa
In South Africa, more so than almost any
place on earth, racial sensitivity must be considered. The catering to the
Blacks, the Whites, the Browns and the Coloured as one spirit through different
hues was a major devotional thrust by organisers of the Festival of Chariots.
On the previous day, the notion to
celebrate the obvious splash of colours was a re-enactment of the ancient holi
festival in India. From a stage set-up at North Beach, DJ Deon Govender’s music
set the tone for all rainbow colours to explode in the air and land on happy
beaches.
The concept of a rainbow is perfect, as
this program was dubbed as “Rainbow Splash.” All colours curve and stay united.
The unity principle was achieved through the event. It was definitely a
newcomer friendly environment. One camera came my way asking my opinion of the
festival and I was proud to offer my 2 rands-worth. I volunteered to say that
people felt un-intimidated. There was no in-your-face stuff and yet there was
nothing hidden “spiritually.”
It was a smart fest.
My last minutes spent after a great
performance of “Dhruva” and a beach walk was catching a glimpse of the band
“Freshly Grown.” This band drew an incredible rainbow of people. It was a clean
sound but not enough to excite all monks on the grounds. I really appreciate
their coming and giving support to an ancient festival that dates way back to
Puri in India and set right next to the Indian Ocean where the Deity of
Jaganatha, the Lord of the Universe, eyes the same waters but thousands of
kilometres away.
7 KM
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