Bright colours will abound this weekend as Ashburton locals come together to celebrate Holi.

The celebration of the South Asian festival of colours will have a Newari twist this year, Newah Guthi New Zealand Canterbury president Rohit Ranjit said.

The Newar people are one of the 125 distinct ethnic groups in Nepal, based mostly in the Kathmandu valley.

Ranjit said there are around 300 Newari families in Canterbury, and a much larger number of Nepali people.

“The group is working to preserve our Newari culture through events like this.”

The day will see cultural dances and songs performed, and the group will put on a feast of Newari cuisine – lunch and dinner – for attendees.

“It’s something different – it’s way different to what we eat in New Zealand.”

And, of course, there will be plenty of gulal – the bright coloured powder attendees get to throw on each other.

Ranjit is excited to bring together friends and family who can’t often find the time to connect.

“It’s an event for the Newari community as a whole, but it’s a chance for any ethnic group to celebrate and join the festivities.”

The festival will take place at Lake Hood on Saturday.

Interested parties should contact Rohit Sultan Ranjit on Facebook.

What is Holi?

Holi is a Hindu festival that celebrates colours, the triumph of good over evil, and the beginning of spring in India.

It was originally a celebration of Lord Vishnu, who is the creator and protector of the universe.

In particular, it celebrates the legend of Prahlad, who survived being burnt in a fire due to his dedication to Lord Vishnu.

While it has Hindu roots, South Asians of different religions across the world have gotten in on the festivities.

By Anisha Satya