Indore, renowned as India's cleanest city, erupted into a kaleidoscope of colors on Saturday as it marked the traditional Rangpanchami procession, with Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav enthusiastically joining the revelry.
Thousands from diverse backgrounds participated in the 'Ger' Holi, a cherished tradition spanning nearly eight decades.
“These groups of revellers are those who play Ger Holi to make others their own,” Yadav told reporters here after joining the celebrations with other politicians.
The CM was seen moving in an open vehicle joyously spraying colours on those who had gathered to participate in the festival. “In the olden days, people from different communities used to participate in the event with their traditional symbols,” Yadav said.
Rangpanchami, celebrated five days post-Holi, symbolizes the triumph over ignorance.
Meanwhile, Efforts are underway to secure UNESCO recognition for Ger. "We will pursue UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity status for Ger," an official said.
The Rangpanchmi Ger starts from different areas of the city and culminates at Rajwada (castle of Holkars, former rulers of Indore), where people get drenched in colours. A large number of people had also converged in the heart of the city to watch the colourful event.
According to locals, the tradition of taking out Ger started from the time of Holkar rulers when members of the royal family would come out to play Holi with common citizens. It began to be celebrated in a big way after independence. During those days, huge water guns mounted on bullock carts were used to drench participants with colours.
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