(C) KPI News

MIRYANG, South Korea — In the heart of Gyeongsangnam-do, the quiet, scenic city of Miryang is preparing for a sonic and visual explosion. On March 8, the Sunshine Miryang Theme Park will host the 16th Holi Hai Festival, a vibrant celebration that promises to bridge the cultural gap between Korea and India through music, movement, and mountains of powdered pigment.

A Long-Awaited Reunion
The return of Holi Hai to Miryang is more than just a party; it is a cultural homecoming. After a three-year gap since the 2023 edition, the Indians in Korea (IIK) association has once again chosen Miryang as its canvas. The city’s deep-rooted connection to Indian culture—specifically through its dedicated Yoga Culture Town—makes it the ideal sanctuary for this ancient Vedic tradition.

The Spirit of "Holi"
Historically, Holi marks the end of winter and the blossoming of spring. In Miryang, this transition will be celebrated with the "Holi Color Session." Starting at 1:30 PM, the air will be filled with Gulal (the traditional colored powder). As professional DJs spin a mix of Bollywood hits and global EDM, the social barriers of age and nationality dissolve under layers of pink, green, yellow, and blue.

The use of natural, eco-friendly powders ensures that the celebration remains harmonious with the surrounding environment of Danjang-myeon. For many expatriates and locals alike, the act of throwing color is a cathartic release—a "reset button" for the soul as the new season begins.

More Than Just Color
While the pigments are the draw, the festival offers a deep dive into the Indian diaspora's rich heritage. Early birds arriving at 10:00 AM can participate in authentic yoga workshops, led by masters who emphasize the spiritual and physical alignment that Miryang has come to be known for.

Foodies will also find a haven in the cultural booths, where the aroma of spices like cumin, cardamom, and saffron will offer a literal taste of India. From savory snacks to traditional sweets, the culinary aspect of the festival serves as a delicious reminder of India's diversity.

Community and Accessibility
One of the most striking aspects of the 2026 festival is its accessibility. By offering free admission to those 16 and under, the organizers are positioning Holi Hai as a family-friendly educational experience. It’s an opportunity for the younger generation to experience multiculturalism firsthand, not through a textbook, but through shared laughter and play.

For adults, the city has made the event highly affordable through a pre-registration system. Those who sign up via the official website before February 28 can secure their spot for just 10,000 KRW—a 50% discount that includes the essential "Holi Kit" of powders and headwear.

A Global Hub in the Making
The hosting of such a high-profile international event underscores Miryang's ambition to become a global cultural hub. By integrating the serenity of Korean nature with the vibrancy of Indian tradition, the city is carving out a unique identity in the tourism sector.

As the city official noted, the festival is a celebration of "values." Whether it is the discipline of yoga or the joyful chaos of Holi, the underlying message remains the same: a celebration of life, health, and community.