Holi: one of India's oldest festivals. This religious Hindu festival takes place in March and marks the beginning of Spring, as well as the triumph of 'good' over 'evil'. Inspired by this this tradition, the creators of Holi One introduced Europe to colour festivals. Communicating the message that "we are all one", the act of covering people of all backgrounds in paint is a symbol of mass equality. This month, London held its first Holi One Colour Festival at Battersea Power Station, drowning the grounds in clouds of fluorescent powder. The top DJs, dancers and beautiful-smelling pulled pork trucks all contribute to the amazing atmosphere of this celebration. Here's some Chaat! advice for those planning to go in 2014...
- Wear white if you want to look extra colourful. Don't take any items of clothing you love - everything will adopt a pink tint in the wash.
- Print your ticket. There's a much longer entry queue for people with tickets on mobile devices.
- Fill your paint bags with half a bottle of water if you want the it to stick and stand-out.
- Be prepared for spontaneous hugging. There's no room for social awkwardness - new friends will want your paint to rub off on them.
- It's probably best not to take a drink in with you during a colour countdown. The mist of multicoloured paint may look pretty but it's not a great cider accompaniment.
- Invest in a phone or camera cover. Still experiencing a slight charging malfunction from the amount of paint embedded in the charger socket.
- Throwing paint at strangers is therapeutic. We want more paint in our lives.
- Does what it says on the (paint) tin; this chaotic but peaceful festival brings people together. It's definitely one for the bucket list.
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