In the “flea market” of Tel Aviv, more than two thousand Indian and Israelis celebrated Holi and the Jewish holiday of Purim. They enjoyed Indian dance, classical music, henna, dresses, Indian Chai, and calligraphy in Hindi.
The Indian mission in Israel and the Tel Aviv municipality organized “India in flea market” to commemorate the two festivals, which essentially fall on the same day each year, or at most one day apart.
Thousands of Indian enthusiasts from across the nation attended the event, including Indian students and Israelis of Indian descent.
The Indian festival of Holi, also known as the ‘festival of colours’ and the Jewish festival of Purim, when people wear colourful dresses, share many commonalities.
“Both festivals are celebrated to mark the victory of good over evil. Both festivals are celebrated around the same time- the arrival of spring and the end of winter. Both festivals are celebrated outdoors where communities come together, dance, sing, eat and make fun in a spirit of togetherness”, a participant noted.
The Flea market in Yafo wore a festive look dressed up in an Indian ensemble in various ways.
The event was attended by Deputy Chief of Mission, Rajiv Bodwade, and Rafi Shushan, CEO of “Mishlama leyafo” from the Tel Aviv Yafo Municipality.
“In association with #TelAvivYafo Municipality, the Embassy of India celebrated the ‘India in Flea Market’ event on the occasion of #Holi and #Purim festivals. Over 2000 visitors enjoyed Indian dance, classical music, Indian dresses, henna, calligraphy in Hindi & Indian Chai”, a post by the Indian mission on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, said.
Indian enthusiasts took part in dance workshops featuring songs related to the Holi festival, attended presentations explaining the festival’s significance, and celebrated the shared spirit of happiness and unity between Holi and Purim.
Additionally, three Israeli musicians who performed Indian classical dance and three Indian classical musicians who played the bansuri, tabla, and sitar gave a performance of “Trikundram,” a classical instrumental music piece.
Many women who enjoyed getting their palms painted with Mehndi were drawn to the henna stalls. Young people also loved the calligraphy stands that wrote guests’ names in Hindi.
Additionally, a dress corner was constructed to show off Indian costumes to the guests.
Read More
India Summons German Diplomat Over Arvind Kejriwal’s Arrest
