Festival of colors in Azerbaijan

/By AzerNews/

By Amina Nazarli

Hundreds of people chucked powdered paint at each other, as the first ever “Summer Festival of Colors” was held in the country’s picturesque region of Guba.

The roots of this increasingly popular festival lie in the Hindu festival of Holi – an annual celebration held on the first day of spring.

People of all ages take to the streets to throw colored water and a powdery paint known as gulal.

The two-day festival took place near the Chanlibel lake in Guba.

The festival brought many people from the country’s different corners to enjoy the holiday and experience unforgettable feeling. Even tourists did not miss the chance to participate in this funny festival.

The leading of the holiday was the DJ desk, who amazed the audience with his music.All participants received a tremendous pleasure, as they sang, danced, threw paint at each other until the night.

Holi is a multi-faceted celebration -- it’s about the triumph of good over evil, a festival of love, and a knees-up to mark the end of winter. It’s called Holi after Holika, a demoness who was burned to death attempting to kill the son of god Vishnu. In India, the holiday is marked by people throwing coloured paint powder and squirting coloured water at each other. It’s a dangerous day to be outside if you’re wearing a new top.

Guba is one of Azerbaijan's most beautiful regions. The place is rich with flora and fauna and has good conditions for hunting and fishing. There is a unique waterfall in Pirbanovsha, where the water creates graceful natural sculptures.

The region is engaged in agriculture and is perfect place for lovers of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially the famous Guba apples.

History enthusiasts will also find places to visit, like settlements from the 12-13th centuries, a temple dating from the 9th century and several buildings of the 19th century.

But the main source of interest in the region remains the Khinalig village located 2,350 meters above the sea. The Khinaluq ethnic group has been living in the Caucasus for thousands of years. They have managed to retain their language, customs and traditions for thousands of years.

Khinalig is one of the most important components of the bright and picturesque image of Guba.