March 2019 – Over 5,000 people gathered at Leicester’s iconic Abbey Park on Saturday, 23rd March, for a vibrant and joyous celebration of Holi. The festival, known for its dazzling display of colours, brought together communities from all backgrounds in a spirited showcase of unity, culture, and entertainment.

With the theme ‘Embracing Diversity, Celebrating Unity’, the event aimed to strengthen bonds across Leicester’s diverse communities. Baroness Sandip Verma of Leicester expressed her admiration, stating, “I was born in Amritsar, and seeing this beautiful diversity here is a reflection of everything our fathers and grandfathers worked hard for. Leicester is not only one of the most culturally diverse cities in the country but also one of the most peaceful.”

The day was packed with family-friendly activities, including traditional laizem workshops, yoga sessions, stage performances, and kabaddi matches. However, the highlight of the event was undoubtedly the Dhuleti, the traditional throwing of colours, which filled the air with bright hues and joyous energy.

Leicester’s City Mayor, Sir Peter Soulsby, attended the festivities alongside Deputy City Mayor Piara Singh Clair MBE and Assistant City Mayor Manjula Sood MBE. Reflecting on the occasion, Sir Peter said, “Leicester takes great pride in its many faith-organised events, but Holi is particularly special—a truly joyous celebration.”

The large-scale event was made possible through the collaboration of 17 Hindu organisations, with Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (UK) playing a leading role in its organisation. Leicester Holi Coordinator Nikesh Patel remarked, “Our goal was to unite communities, and Holi’s spirit of togetherness made this celebration a perfect way to achieve that. An event organised by the community, for the community, embodies the very essence of Leicester Holi.”

Deputy Lieutenant of Leicester, Ramanbhai Barber MBE DL, who attended with his wife Khushmanben, praised the organisers, saying, “We were delighted and honoured to represent Her Majesty and the Lord Lieutenant at this colourful celebration. Congratulations to the Leicester Holi Committee for their dedication in bringing such a vibrant festival to life.”

The festival’s success reaffirmed Leicester’s reputation as a city that cherishes cultural diversity and unity, making Holi a standout event in its annual calendar. With its electrifying atmosphere and inclusive spirit, the celebration once again highlighted what brings communities together rather than what sets them apart.