In a recent move, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has made the decision to prohibit Holi celebrations in all educational institutes across the country. This action comes as a response to a viral video depicting a Holi celebration held at Quaid-I-Azam University (QAU) in Islamabad earlier this month.
According to the HEC notification, such festivities seen as disconnected from Pakistan’s sociocultural values and pose a threat to its Islamic identity. The commission emphasizes the significance of maintaining a balanced approach to cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity, promoting inclusivity and tolerance within society while respecting all faiths and creeds.
Expressing concerns about the excessive nature of some celebrations, the HEC urges students to be cautious and not become tools in the hands of opportunistic individuals who exploit such events for personal gain.
The Holi celebration at QAU, dubbed as the “biggest Holi celebration in Pakistan,” garnered both praise and criticism from various quarters. While some commended the event for promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity, others believed that it contradicted Islamic traditions and values upheld in the country.
The HEC’s decision has sparked a widespread debate on the delicate balance between cultural expression and religious identity within educational settings. Advocates of the ban argue that preserving Pakistan’s Islamic heritage is crucial, whereas opponents contend that cultural celebrations should allowed as long as they conducted respectfully and with understanding.
Holi, traditionally celebrated by Hindus as a symbol of unity, joy, and the arrival of spring, has gained global popularity. However, in Pakistan, where Islam is the dominant religion, conservative factions view Holi celebrations as deviating from the country’s religious and cultural norms.
With the implementation of the HEC’s ban, educational institutions throughout Pakistan expected to adhere to the directive and abstain from organizing Holi celebrations. This decision has sparked discussions surrounding cultural sensitivity, the role of religion in shaping social norms, and the freedom of expression within the educational sphere.