Sunderland students mark the beginning of spring this Holi

The University of Sunderland came alive with colour as staff and students celebrated the Hindu festival of Holi.

Also known as the Festival of Love, Holi marks the beginning of spring in the Hindu calendar and is celebrated through traditions like throwing coloured powder on one another.

Throwing colour symbolises the love and affection that the deities Radha and Krishna have for one another. It also marks the triumph of good over evil, commemorating the victory of Vishnu as Narasimha over Hiranyakashipu.

Marking the festival, students took part in celebrations organised through YourSU, the University of Sunderland’s students’ union.

Laavaya Thakur, who studies Pharmaceutical Science at the University, said: “To be able to celebrate on Holi is really exciting. I haven’t celebrated it in so many years, so I’m really happy that I get to celebrate it here."

Arjun Askoolam, who studies Journalism at the University, said: “I come from a Hindu family and I’ve never celebrated Holi before, so it’s my first time doing this.

“I think celebrations like this helps create a sense of inclusivity at the University. We have a diverse student body so it’s important to hold celebrations like this.”

Komalpreet Kaur, who studies Biochemistry at the University, said: “This is my first Holi away from home, so I’m very excited to celebrate here. It feels like I belong here at the University.”