KARACHI: The Hindu inhabitants of the Metropolis on Wednesday marked the advent of

Holi, the traditional Hindu festival, with lighting and bonfire at Shri Panchumukhi
Hanuman Temple in Soldier Bazar area.

Special arrangements for Holka Fire, that is the Holi Bonfire, were also made at
other different temples including Swami Narayan, attended by hundreds of
worshippers from different social strata.

The Hindu citizens of Karachi had also chalked out elaborate programmes for the
ensuing celebrations that literally turned Holi into a "Festival of Colors," with
people throwing colored powder and sprinkling colored water on each other.

"Celebrations would continue tomorrow throughout the day as we would visit our
relatives and friends and exchange greetings," said Bhagwandas, a Karachiite known
for his philanthropic work.

About Holka Fire, he said this also depicts triumph of good over evil and light
over darkness paving way for land fertility.

"Inclusiveness is an essential part of the festival and therefore special measures

are adopted by the followers to ensure that food or gifts are left on their
doorsteps for passers-by on the eve of Holi", claimed Dr. Ramchand, a medical
practitioner.

Meanwhile, many of the families, attending the mega event organized by Pakistan
Hindu Council at Hanuman temple could be witnessed carrying national flags
celebrating fast approaching Pakistan Day along with the Holi festival.

"This is to express our solidarity with all countrymen and promote interfaith
harmony," said Dr. Vankwani, the Patron-in-chief of Pakistan Hindu Council.

MNA Dr. Ramesh Kumar Vakwani said the diversity of Pakistani society was needed to
be duly highlighted.