HOLI
WIDOW’S HOLI
Widows have traditionally been excluded from Holi celebrations in India. After their husband passes, they are expected to abstain from all pleasures and lead a simple life. They wear white, eat plain foods, and do not participate in celebratory festivals. Varindavan is known as the city of widows, hosting roughly 15,000 - 20,000. Estranged from their families and disowned by their in-laws, they seek refuge in Vrindavan and live on roughly $10 per month.
About a decade ago, Sulabh International organized the first widow’s Holi celebration. The founder of Sulabh, Dr. Pathak, says that his goal is not just providing charity but respecting the dignity of widows by reinforcing their worthiness of love and independence. The turnout was low in the first years, he says. But, as attitudes change, the event has grown in popularity and is now one of the most popular events in the city.
KUSHTI WRESTLERS
