MARKHAM: The colourful festival of Holi was celebrated with great enthusiasm by the Indian Canadian Organization with a cross section of Canadian society at New Jasmine Banquet Hall in Markham.
It was attended by people from the political, social and professional arenas to revel in an atmosphere of joy and togetherness dominated by the spirit of Vasudhaiv Kutumbkam (The world is one family).
Dipika Damerla, Minister of Seniors Affairs, was the Chief Guest along with guests of honor Bob Saroya (MP), Dr. Asha Seth (Senator), Joe Dickson (MPP)and Frank Scarpitti, Mayor of Markham. Besides the heads of various social and religious organizations and academics, representatives from York Regional Police added luminous colors to the Holi festivities.
In his welcome address, ICO President Milan Patel explained the role of ICO as an umbrella organization for Indo-Canadians in the GTA and Hamilton Area.The highlights of the evening were the ICO Award of the Year given to Prof. Sadhna Joshi of Toronto University by Dipika Damerla, for her contributions in the field of research on HIV. Prof. Devendra Mishra and Prof.Azad Kaushik (Chair and Co-Chair of ICO respectively) presented .Joe Dickson (MPP))with a ceremonial shawl and a Certificate for being the Chief Architect of the Hindu Heritage Month. Prof. Mishra hailed Joe Dickson as “The Hero of the Hindus in Ontario”`. Captivating cultural performances by the children and the youth of ICO won applause from the audience. The most thrilling act in the true spirit of Holi Hungama (celebration) was the participation by Mayor Frank Scarpitti of the City of Markham. Emcees for the evening were Devi Ravindran and Seema Dubey. The festivities ended with a sumptuous dinner and a group dance.
-by Prof Devendra Mishra