Hundreds of people gathered to celebrate the annual festival of Holi, regardless of fears over coronavirus and the heavy rain.

Around three hundred people came to the festival of colours at the car park behind Harrow Civic Centre, celebrating the start of Spring and new life on Tuesday (March 10).

Despite the rain and current events, the Hindu community in Harrow showed their excitement and spirit during the festival.

The main ceremony involving lighting the bonfire involved the offerings of coconuts to the holy bonfire, symbolising getting rid of all the negativity, anger, greed and envy.

The ceremony symbolises the fresh start of acceptance and love.

Harrow Times:

A member of the Siddhashram Team added that the fire burns “impurities” and germs, in reference to the current global spread of Covid-19.

A spokesperson said: “Our ancestors certainly knew what they were doing when they started these ancient practices.

“Indeed, we are most blessed in Harrow and thank our Hindu spiritual leader, his holiness Rajrajeshwarji, profusely for all he does as our police and mayoral chaplain, and as an inspiring religious leader of our community.”

Among some of the special guests, were Mayor of Harrow Cllr Nitin Parek, Harrow West MP Gareth Thomas, radio presenter Ravi Sharma and the chair of Harrow Interfaith, David Cryer.