Holi is Now an Official Texas Festival! Senate Passes Historic Resolution

In a landmark decision, the Texas Senate has officially recognized Holi, the vibrant Hindu festival of colors, making Texas the third state in the U.S. to honor this cultural celebration. Following in the footsteps of Georgia and New York, the resolution underscores the festival’s themes of renewal, unity, and the victory of good over evil.

Introduced by Senator Sarah Eckhardt, the resolution was passed just days before Holi festivities commenced on March 14. It shines a spotlight on the ancient festival’s global appeal, noting its millennia-old roots and its resonance with people from diverse backgrounds who embrace its messages of love and progress.

“Holi is a jubilant celebration that brings communities together,” the resolution reads, emphasizing its role in fostering bonds and enriching Texas’s cultural tapestry. The Senate’s acknowledgment comes as a nod to the state’s growing diversity and the contributions of its Hindu American residents.

DC Manjunath, Consul General of India in Houston, hailed the move as a “proud and historic moment” for Texas. Speaking to PTI, he expressed gratitude to Senator Eckhardt and her team for championing the resolution. “This recognition reflects our shared values of diversity and friendship,” he said. “Holi’s universal message of unity and renewal transcends communities, and we’re thrilled to see it celebrated officially here.”

The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) played a key role in supporting the resolution, collaborating with Eckhardt’s office to bring it to fruition. During the Senate reading, HAF representatives joined members of the Hindu American community in the gallery to witness the occasion.

“Texas makes history!” HAF declared in a statement. “With this first-ever Holi resolution, the state joins Georgia and New York in celebrating the spirit of unity and color that Holi represents.”

This milestone highlights the increasing visibility and influence of the Indian American community in Texas, marking a vibrant step forward in cultural recognition.