Students gather for a group photo at the Holi celebration. Holi, the festival of colors, marked the arrival of spring and celebrated renewal and the triumph of good over evil, bringing the community together to share in the tradition.

International students swipe color on each other’s faces, embracing the cultural tradition of Holi. The vibrant powders, Gulal, traditionally made from flowers or herbs like neem, turmeric, dried petals and cornstarch, are used to ward off seasonal illnesses during the transition into spring.

Laughter spreads across the Memorial Union lawn as students spray each other with colorful water during the annual celebration. More than 70 attendees enjoyed the music and traditional Indian foods, including Pakora, Mango Lassi and Gulab Jamun.

International students Aacrish Nanju, junior nursing major, and Swikriti Khatri, sophomore nursing major, are covered in bright colors as they celebrate Holi together. The event was not only about color but also a symbol of new beginnings that strengthen and solidify bonds within the community.

Mohammad Asfaque, event coordinator, Gemima Joseph, advisor and Baili Zhang, director of international programs, pose with a student during the Holi celebration. The team celebrated the evening alongside attendees in hopes that the community noticed elements of friendship and joy.

Applying color to faces during Holi signifies love and equality. This great level of forgiveness acted as a social equalizer, while the color removed all differences of status among the participants.

Prekshya Adhikari, sophomore molecular biology and biotechnology major, and Lina Chaulagain, junior nursing major, joyfully dance to the music, enhancing the festive atmosphere. The celebration honored Holika Dahan, a significant Hindu tradition that symbolized the victory of good over evil.

A group of students gather alongside the statue of Ichabod Washburn, which is now covered in bright colors, proudly showing the playful result of the celebration. The transformation of the statue reflected the art of colors.

Adding their own splash of color, Ichabod Washburn is turned into an honorary Holi participant. The statue quickly became one of the most colorful guests at the event.

Asfaque sprays a water gun at friends as they chase each other across the lawn. Although water was used for fun, it also symbolized the washing away of past adversities to make room for new growth.