Family fun and multicultural colour

A TRADITIONAL Hindu festival is returning to Bendigo next month aimed at celebrating the region’s many cultures.

Hosted by the Indian Association of Bendigo with the Golden Square Pool, Holi Festival of Colour is set to add some vibrancy to their public swimming space in early March.

IAB president Abhishek Awasthi said the event is all about inclusiveness.

“For us it’s really important to bring every member of the community to come enjoy, share the culture and experience the love and joy the Bendigo Indian community has to offer,” he said.

“The pools will be open and there’ll be lots of music and dance, live performances and Bollywood music and performances, a live DJ and Dhol drum playing.

“This is something I’ve always said to people experience once and break down that barrier. It’s a family space where everyone can join and be proud of who they are.”

Attendees are encouraged to dress in white clothing to complement the coloured powders that will be thrown about during the event.

Free chai used for Indian dishes will be on offer as well as different food stalls and children’s activities.

This year’s Holi Festival will be the IAB’s second iteration after first formally celebrating the event last year.

With more than 300 tickets booked since launching earlier this week, Mr Awasthi said theirs is the biggest Holi Festival in regional Victoria.

“It’s just the sheer numbers. In Bendigo, the community has grown over the last few years, and with our association we’ve brought everyone from the Indian community together,” he said.

“It’s about coming together as a community. This is also known as a colour run like what they have in Melbourne.

“There’s something for everyone of all ages.”

The Holi Festival of Colour will take place from 10.30am on Saturday, 4 March.

Although entry is free, attendees will need to book tickets at iab.net.au/holi.