About the Event
One of India’s biggest cultural events is back in Manila! Asia Society Philippines and SM by the BAY present the HOLI FESTIVAL 2018, the 6th annual celebration in Manila of the traditional Hindu Festival, on 18 March 2018 (Sunday) at 3:30 PM at North Fountain, SM by the BAY.
This ancient Hindu festival of lively colors marks the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Best known for being celebrated with the throwing of brightly colored powder (gulal) in the air and at other festival goers, the HOLI FESTIVAL 2018 is Manila’s own celebration of Indian music, cuisine, and culture.
This will be the sixth consecutive year that Asia Society Philippines hosts the HOLI FESTIVAL in partnership with members of the Indian community, and each year seems to merit greater attention from people of different cultural backgrounds.
“HOLI FESTIVAL is an enjoyable opportunity for all of us in the Philippines from every nationality, to share in the beautiful Indian culture. Asia Society Philippines is honored to be working with the Indian community in the Philippines, and appreciates the values that this celebration upholds. We hope that we all take an interest in learning more about the Indian culture as they are a vibrant, integral community in the Philippines.” says Suyin Lee, Executive Director of Asia Society Philippines.
Each year, more and more Filipinos are sharing in the festivities with the Indian community. It is a joyous occasion of starting anew and letting go of the burdens of the past. It is a festive day to forget and forgive with family, friends, and even strangers.
HOLI FESTIVAL 2018 will also be the first celebration in Manila of H.E. Jaideep Mazumdar, the newly appointed Ambassador of India to the Philippines. Truly, HOLI FESTIVAL is a symbol for new beginnings!
HOLI FESTIVAL 2018 is organized by Asia Society Philippines, SM by the BAY, the Embassy of India, Federation of the Indian Chambers of Commerce, Inc., the Indian Ladies Club, and Standard Insurance. It is co-presented by JLT Philippines. It is sponsored by Incredible India and Western Union. It is supported by Jollibee, New India Assurance, Royal Indian Curry House, and Snickers. Special thanks to Ambica, Esquire, and Magnolia Purewater. Media Partners include Barangay LS 97.1, ClickTheCity.com, GMA, NoliSoli.PH, WhenInManila.com, Zee Cinema, Zee Sine, and Zee TV.
Tickets are on sale now for Php 200, and will also be available at the festival grounds for Php 250. Tickets are available at all SM Tickets outlets and on smtickets.com.
ABOUT ASIA SOCIETY PHILIPPINES
Asia Society Philippines is the sole Southeast Asian center of the 12 centers of Asia Society worldwide. A non-profit organization, Asia Society Philippines seeks to improve greater people-to-people understanding and respect between Asia and the West, between Asia’s many peoples, and among Filipinos. Through its programs in public policy, business, and arts and culture, Asia Society Philippines seeks to make a meaningful contribution in the work towards a more united, peaceful and progressive world. More information about Asia Society Philippines can be accessed at http://asiasociety.org/philippines/about-asia-society.
Sing and dance to the sounds of Bollywood and Bhangra together with professional dancers who are ready to exhibit and teach an array of unique techniques. Enjoy music from DJs selected specifically for HOLI FESTIVAL while getting henna tattoos, eating authentic Indian cuisine, or buying Indian novelties. No matter what your interest may be, the day is sure to be a fun-filled cultural event that will make you feel that will transport you to another place, without leaving home!