Cumming, Georgia— In a colorful celebration of culture, unity, and service, Sewa International's Atlanta Chapter hosted its 18th Annual Holi Festival at the Cumming Fairgrounds on March 21, 2025.
Drawing thousands of attendees from across the region, the event blended vibrant traditions with community engagement, showcasing the Indian-American community’s spirit of joy and seva (selfless service).
Key Facts:
- The Holi festival, hosted by Sewa Atlanta, drew thousands to the Cumming Fairgrounds on March 21, 2025.
- Congressman Rich McCormick and Indian Consul General Ramesh Babu Lakshmanan were among the chief guests celebrating with the crowd.
- The event focused on sustainability, service, and cultural exchange, with attendees bringing reusable water bottles.
The fairgrounds came alive with bursts of color, energetic dance performances, rhythmic music, and a feast of flavors from Desi cuisine.
Families, youth, and elders alike joined in throwing eco-friendly gulal (color powder), celebrating not just Holi’s mythological roots, but its enduring symbolism of unity over division.
The event promoted environmental responsibility by encouraging participants to bring refillable water bottles, aligning joy with mindful living.
Congressman Dr. Rich McCormick was seen dancing among the crowds, praising Sewa International’s commitment to local and global humanitarian causes.
“The volunteers here are a shining example of the best of humanity,” he said, applauding their dedication to selfless service. The Consul General of India in Atlanta, Ramesh Babu Lakshmanan, also commended Sewa for organizing what he described as the largest Holi celebration in the United States, praising its role in community upliftment and charitable work.
Local leaders and dignitaries emphasized the festival’s impact in fostering cultural understanding and inclusion. Deputy Consul General Sreejan Shandilya highlighted how Holi, in this setting, goes beyond celebration to promote diversity and unity across communities.
Dr. Madhav Durbha, President of Sewa Atlanta, noted the overwhelming support from attendees and sponsors, stating that the turnout reflected both the joy of Holi and the trust the community places in Sewa’s mission.
Sewa International has long been a pillar of support in disaster relief, education, and healthcare, with 43 chapters across the U.S. The Atlanta Holi festival serves as one of its flagship events, uniting people from all backgrounds through shared values of service, celebration, and cultural pride.
Do You Know?
Holi, often called the “Festival of Colors,” has ancient roots in Hindu mythology but is now celebrated worldwide. In the U.S., cities like Atlanta, Houston, and San Francisco host massive Holi events that attract not just South Asians but people from all walks of life.
Key Terms:
- Holi: A spring festival from India symbolizing the victory of good over evil, marked by throwing colors and joyous celebration.
- Seva: A Sanskrit term meaning “selfless service,” central to many Indian spiritual traditions.
- Gulal: Colored powder used during Holi celebrations, traditionally made from natural herbs and flowers.
- Consul General: A senior diplomat representing their home country in a foreign city, promoting cultural and economic ties.
- 501(c)(3): A U.S. tax code designation for nonprofit organizations exempt from federal income tax due to charitable purposes.