Kathmandu:

Warm and sunny weather saved this year’s Holi from getting ruined. The gloomy weather of the past few days had somewhat dampened everyone’s spirit, but the clear skies and a surprisingly bright sun on March 3 restored the festive exuberance.

A trip round the streets and alleyways of the Valley was enough to comprehend that it was a day of colours and merry making. Boys and men with silver painted faces rode fast and furious on their motorbikes on the major streets shouting ‘Happy Holi’. The spirit was so infectious that many were prompted to echo their wishes or a softer ‘Same to you’.

In high residential areas, it was more of a roof-top balloon fights. People hurled balloons, colours and splashed water from their terrace. People walking by were not spared either.

At places like Basantapur and Thamel, the celebrations were more on the roads. Even foreigners joined in and enjoyed the festival. With their faces smeared with colours, one couldn’t distinguish them from the locals. In the afternoon the people in Basantapur took a break for a hot cup of tea at the tea stalls in the square.

Finally the wishes of those who had been desperate to throw balloons and smear colours at others was fulfilled. Everyone became a part of the celebrations whole-heartedly. Even those who had been in the hiding at home came out to play without any apprehension. The real spirit of Holi could be felt all around the Valley as every individual celebrated the festival enthusiastically.