Hindus tone down Holi celebrations

Say families to pray for December 16 victims and families.

PESHAWAR: Months may have passed, but the haunting images of the Army Public School massacre still dominate the thoughts of the Hindus decided to celebrate the colourful festival of Holi on Thursday with simplicity.

The Holi festival is celebrated by Hindus to usher in the spring season. Families visited temples and offered special prayers for the departed souls of APS martyrs. Kaka Ram, a Hindu elder and custodian of the Guru Guraknath temple, said Holi gives people a chance to put their differences aside and pray for peace in the country. He added the occasion is usually filled with fun as Hindus of the province throw colour on each other amid the celebrations.

However, the security situation in Peshawar, coupled with fresh memories of loss, have dampened festivities. Most Hindus decided to mark the occasion by praying for peace in the country.

“We have paid homage to the sacrifices of those killed during the APS massacre,” said Kaka Ram. He said Hindu families visited the Guru Guraknath temple to perform religious rituals and offer special prayers.

“We have started celebrations today, but with simplicity,” said All Pakistan Hindu Rights Movement Chairman Haroon Sarabdyal. He said the occasion would be marked at the Guru Guraknath temple in Gor Gathri where families of the APS victims would also be invited.

“We don’t want any misconceptions created among the people of the city,” Haroon said. “Though it is the festival of happiness, its colours can only shine through if there are shades of peace, stability and equality for all the people of the country.” He reiterated that the occasion would be celebrated with the families of APS victims.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 6^th, 2015.