Also known as the festival of colours, Holi is marked with much merrymaking, as people gather to throw coloured powders and water at one another and partake of festive foods and sweets.
Looking to experience the fun yourself? After a six-year hiatus, Shree Lakshmi Narayan Temple in Kuala Lumpur welcomes back this joyous occasion – and organisers Sanatan Dharam Sabha (SDS) Youth are inviting everyone to join in!
“The pandemic took a toll on our celebrations, but we were patient about it. We are ecstatic to be celebrating Holi on a grand scale again,” SDS Youth chairperson Vivek Sharma told FMT Lifestyle.
In 2016, the annual event gained a place in the Malaysia Book of Records for the country’s biggest Holi festival, with an unofficial count of over 7,000 visitors from more than 45 countries.
“Holi brings a sense of togetherness and happiness, and I’m glad we can celebrate it as a diverse community. We want our participants to have a blast and feel the joy of celebrating the festival of colours together,” Vivek added.
Indeed, “SDS Holi 2024 – Colours of Summer” promises to be a truly memorable experience. The event is self-funded by SDS Youth and supported by donors, members of the community, and personal friends of the organisers.
What makes this year’s event extra special is that it will be a “sundowner edition”: most of the festivities take place in the evening, as opposed to afternoons previously, promising a cooler experience for everyone.
A variety of performers will also spice up the atmosphere. These include five dhol (double-sided drum) groups – Dhol Federation, Inferno Production, Penang Dhol Blasters, D’Lakhan Academy, and Dhol Imperial – as well as four DJs: DJ Slick Vick, DJ Freazz, DJ Nick Dhillon, and DJ Nahsyk.
The festivities will be hosted by emcee Nipun Chhabra aka MCNC. Plus, look out for two energetic Bhangra performances from Punjabi Virsa and GoBhangra, as well as a special performance from SDS Youth themselves!
Feeling hungry? Don’t worry – Vivek assures you there will be delicacies galore, including the best of North Indian cuisine and street specialties.
As for those who are keen to bring home a souvenir or two, official merchandise will be available, including “Holi 2024” t-shirts and water guns.
So, does Vivek have any tips on how to have the best time at the festival? “Stay hydrated and be open to mingling around with new people,” he advised.
And while it is important to dress and behave appropriately as the event is being held on temple grounds, “there will be a wide range of entertainment, so get ready to let loose!”
‘SDS Holi 2024 – Colours of Summer’
When:
April 6 (Saturday), 3pm-7pm
Where:
Shree Lakshmi Narayan Temple,
68 Jalan Kasipillay,
Off Jalan Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur
Ticket prices:
- Pre-sale (until tomorrow, March 30): RM22 for adults and children above 6 years old
- Normal price/walk in: RM22 for children (7-13 years old) and RM35 for children and adults (above age 13)
Tickets can be purchased by clicking here. For more information, email [email protected].
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