Holi celebration brings colour to Oldham streets

Oldham's streets turned into a kaleidoscope of colour last Wednesday as the Shree Swaminarayan Mandir celebrated Holi, the Hindu Festival of Colours. The temple on Middleton Road opened its doors to families from across the borough, transforming the surrounding area into a vibrant celebration that brought together Oldham's diverse communities.

Dozens of residents gathered outside the temple on March 4, throwing brightly coloured powders into the air and sharing traditional sweets. Children laughed as they chased each other through clouds of pink, blue, and yellow powder, while parents captured the moments on their phones. The celebration spilled out onto the pavement, with music and laughter echoing through the neighbourhood.

A temple spokesperson described the event as 'a vibrant outdoor celebration that transformed the streets around the temple.' The festivities reflected Oldham's multicultural character, with families from different backgrounds joining in the ancient Hindu tradition. Local shopkeepers reported increased foot traffic as curious passers-by stopped to watch or join in the fun.

The Holi celebration has become an annual fixture in Oldham's cultural calendar, drawing participants from across the borough. For many, it's more than just a religious observance-it's a chance for the community to come together and share in the joy of spring's arrival. As the coloured powders settled and the music faded, residents returned home with rainbow-stained clothes and smiles, carrying the spirit of unity back to their neighbourhoods.