On Wednesday, March 12, 2025, the Parker Jewish Institute celebrated Holi – the vibrant festival of colors, love, and the arrival of spring! Holi, also known as the Festival of Colors or the Festival of Love, is one of the most joyous and colorful holidays in the Hindu calendar. Rooted in centuries of tradition, it is a celebration of the divine love between God Krishna and Goddess Radha. Holi symbolizes a time for renewal, embracing joy, unity, and new beginnings, making it the perfect occasion for the Parker Jewish Institute to come together in a festive and spirited celebration.
The Holi festivities, held in the beautiful and welcoming auditorium, brought together patients, residents, and their families, representing a diverse mix of backgrounds and cultures. The event was a harmonious blend of prayer, celebration, and shared joy. One of the highlights of the day was a series of poetic readings by the talented Anju Sharma, whose words captured the essence of Holi’s significance. Alongside the poetry, the talented Sur Sagar team, composed of residents, brought music to life through their soulful performances. The group was led by their teacher and cultural liaison, the ever-charismatic Mukta Kohli, whose leadership and dedication to the arts resonated throughout the gathering.
Adding to the magic of the event was the contribution of community artist Jyoti Gupta, who graced the stage with her beautiful songs, while the talented Ghanshyam Joshi provided musical accompaniment on the keyboard, seamlessly supporting the performers. His skillful play enhanced the beauty of the event and allowed the audience to experience the music in all its splendor.
Among the many memorable performances, the Garba dance stood out as a particularly enchanting moment. Performed by eight members of India Home, each dancer was dressed in vibrant and elegant saris, moving in graceful unison to the rhythmic beats of the music. The colorful costumes and synchronized steps captured the essence of the celebration, leaving the audience in awe. Another exhilarating performance came from Navdeep Kundi and his team, who gave an energetic and lively Dhol-Bhangra performance. The infectious energy of the dancers had the entire room clapping along, their vibrant movements a testament to the joy and vitality that Holi brings.
In true Holi tradition, the Parker Jewish Institute’s food service team prepared a selection of traditional Indian delicacies that were loved by all who attended. Guests enjoyed delicious carrot halwa, samosas, and other delectable dishes that transported everyone to the heart of Indian cuisine, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the celebration. The combination of great food, lively music, and dance created a festive atmosphere that brought everyone together in unity and celebration.
This event would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the Parker administration and Dr. Parikh, whose media business played a crucial role in supporting this celebration. Dr. Parikh’s dedication to fostering cultural inclusivity and supporting the Parker Jewish Institute’s mission has been invaluable. His contributions highlight the importance of bridging cultural gaps and creating a welcoming environment for all.
As we reflect on the success of the Holi celebration, we are reminded of the incredible generosity of the Parker community. Through their continued contributions, the Parker Jewish Institute is able to uphold its mission of providing compassionate, superior healthcare and rehabilitation for all our patients and residents. Holi was not just a celebration of culture, but a testament to the importance of kindness, compassion, and community – values that are central to the work being done at the Parker Jewish Institute every day.
We are grateful to everyone who made this special event possible, from the performers and volunteers to the administrative team, and to the entire community for their support. As we continue to build on this sense of unity and cultural appreciation, we look forward to many more celebrations that enrich the lives of all who call Parker home.
(Used with permission from NIT)
