QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) -- Hundreds gathered for the 37th annual Phagwah Parade as Queens came alive with a rainbow of colors and music.
Queens officials say the borough has the largest Indo-Caribbean and Indian communities in America, which is why for many who live here, the parade means keeping traditions alive.
“This is our Indian-Hindu celebration!” shouted proudly Vishnu Boodhoo.
Pretty Gobin migrated from Trinidad 10 years ago. “Back home I grew up doing Phagwah celebrations and this is something I can give to my daughter,” said Gobin.
During this celebration of Holi, spectators lined up along Liberty Avenue in Richmond Hill as floats drove by with people showing their dance moves and tossing colorful powders to the crowd.
The multicolored powders thrown over one another signify unity and the power of good over evil. “We got the color on the milk too, we are celebrated all over today,” said Chris Zapplea. He and his wife, Amanda Boodhoo brought their 5-month-old baby and hope to be back here with him as he gets older.
“I grew up in Guyana. When I moved here when I was 8 years old,” said Boodhoo.
“Now we have our own little one that we are trying to pass the spirit and holiday to,” added Zapplea.
Happiness and renewal of life are also part of the meaning behind this festival that brings people together regardless of background and all ages. “We need love, we need a lot of love, with love we can conquer everything,” concluded Boodhoo.
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