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The Lost Paradise of Dilmun (LPOD) waterpark came alive on Friday as thousands of families and friends covered in fluorescent-hued powder danced and swayed to a series of musical performances in celebration of the colourful festival of Holi.
The annual Hindu spring festival, which is renowned in India and Nepal and known as the ‘festival of love’, was organised by the park in collaboration with 104.2 FM Radio Mirchi to spread merriment and togetherness.
Holi signifies the victory of good over evil, the arrival of spring and the end of winter, and is used by many to meet, play and laugh, forget and forgive and help repair strained relationships. It is also celebrated as a thanksgiving for a good harvest.
Ismail Ibrahim, LPOD’s operation manager was delighted with the turnout and the atmosphere. He said: “We are glad to host this festival of happiness for the fourth consecutive year. It comes in line with the opening of our 12th season and as a continuation of the annual events taking place at the park, with lots of fun for the whole family.
“It was a good opportunity for a positive cultural exchange between the different communities living in the kingdom.”
The celebration kicked off with a Bhangra Dhol band welcoming guests with music and dance. The aquatic enjoyment continued throughout the day with neon-coloured powder being thrown up in the air to cover visitors as they were entertained by Bollywood singer Nikhita Gandhi and non-stop beats played by Club Mirchi DJ Richard.
There was also a Bollywood and Bhangra Dhol dance show staged by Bollywood Steps Dance Studio. There was also a market offering treats and bags of colour. The carnival also included raffle draws with prizes such as gold, LPOD passes, air tickets, shopping vouchers and more.
Nisha Augustine, 29, a marketing manager, from Gudaibiya, said: “It was a nice family event with a mix of different communities coming together, including many Bahrainis and Pakistanis, to celebrate the occasion. It was fun. The DJ and radio did a wonderful job with nonstop music while people were swimming. The dancers were great. I had fun with my family and work colleagues.”
LPOD will be launching its Ladies Night on April 4 and the month of April will also feature a series of Safari-themed events combined with international Arabic bands.
