Festival of Colors: a Unique Platform for Unity and Spiritual Connection

What began as a heartfelt endeavor to share the joys of spirituality and unity has blossomed into a global phenomenon known as the Festival of Colors (FOC). Caru Das, popularly known as Caru-MC, held his first FOC in Spanish Fork in 1995. Little did he know that his unique approach to the Holi Festival, preserved in Indian tradition, would be successfully duplicated across North America and worldwide.

The FOC is grounded in the principle that Krishna Consciousness can be fun and accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. Caru Das believed that the universal appeal of the festival, free from sectarianism, could bring the message of Krishna Consciousness to a broader audience. The event’s success lies in creating an atmosphere that lets attendees of all backgrounds experience Krishna Consciousness in a joyous, unifying manner.

Over the years, Caru’s unwavering dedication to these festivals has seen them spread across North America. Before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted regular programming, he organized and MC-ed three Color Festivals in Utah (Spanish Fork, Salt Lake City, and Ogden), five in California (Santa Cruz, Sacramento, Los Angeles, San Fernando Valley, and Riverside), and two in Nevada (Reno and Las Vegas).

Caru has organized and MC-ed over 100 FOCs in various states and cities in the United States and Canada. His passion for bringing people together and promoting unity knows no bounds. Furthermore, he offers his expertise and presence to organizers at little or no cost, further highlighting his commitment to the cause.

The festivals go beyond a simple celebration; they also provide a significant platform for preaching. The events feature booths for book distribution, prasadam (spiritual food), and mantra meditation training. This transforms the festivals into more than just fun public outreach but successful opportunities for spreading the teachings of Krishna Consciousness. While some may have visited an ISKCON temple previously, the FOC provides a unique opportunity to interact with Krishna Consciousness in a more relaxed setting. This chain reaction of love and spirituality that begins with the Festival of Colors continues to impact attendees and the communities around them.

Bhakta Joshua’s story demonstrates the power of these gatherings, “The FOC has always been a big event in Spanish Fork, Utah, where I grew up. Going to the festival for the first time was quite an incredible experience. After a day of listening to the Holy Mantra, I felt amazing, and seeing everyone around you full of joy was a great sight.” Joshua later returned to the temple and had the prasadam buffet and the darshan of the deities. He then decided to come back for the Sunday Feast. “The Sunday program was wonderful. The information I heard connected all the pieces I studied from other religions.” Joshua is now a committed community member and a model of humble service to the devotees in Utah. Reflecting on the FOC, he concluded, “It can be a spiritual point of connection for deep devotees and people who have never heard of Krishna. I don’t think you can attend and not be a changed person. The Maha Mantra will plant a seed in the hearts of everyone who hears it.” 

The Festival of Colors has undoubtedly emerged as a cultural and spiritual phenomenon, transcending borders and boundaries. Caru Prabhu’s vision and dedication have enabled people of all backgrounds to unite and experience the joys of unity and Krishna Consciousness.

As Caru aptly stated, “We’ve found our niche. We’re perfectly happy. My own personal goal now is to organize fewer FOCs but to help others organize more and to attend them as well.” 

This vibrant celebration has created a tapestry of love, acceptance, and spirituality that continues to grow, impacting communities and lives across the globe. Caru Das’s mission remains clear: to share the joy of Krishna Consciousness with the world, one festival at a time.

To learn more, you can visit the FOC website or contact Caru directly via Facebook to find out how you can become a part of this unique and fruitful service.