By: Jayanti Oza

The Chicago Kali Bari Temple hosted its annual Holi Color Festival on March 8, 2026, in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, drawing more than 400 devotees and visitors who gathered from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to celebrate the festival of colors with music, dance and traditional rituals.

Families, children and elders took part in the symbolic throwing of colors, representing unity, love and the triumph of good over evil. The temple grounds turned into a vibrant celebration space as participants enjoyed a shared atmosphere of joy and togetherness.

Chicago-based DJ Bharat Oza kept the energy high with Bollywood and Holi-themed music, encouraging continuous dancing and celebration across generations.

Chicago Kali Bari Founder and President Dr. Ram Chakraborty attended the event and actively participated in the festivities, highlighting the temple’s commitment to preserving cultural traditions and strengthening community bonds.

The event was supported by a large team of volunteers, including youth volunteers Aarav Thakore, Advika Jain, Anvika Jain, Arjun Thakore, Krish Suman, Vardaan Tiwari, Vihaan Murlidhar and Yash Mohanty, along with adult volunteers Amit Jain, Anand Tiwari, Eva, Hridesh Bansal, Indu Tiwari, Jayant Thakore, Lina Chakraborty, Mahak Jain, Nag Bhushan Pandit ji, Surendra Sabaliya and Surendra Suman.

Attendees also enjoyed food generously provided by sponsors Shimla Peppers and an anonymous devotee, adding a culinary highlight to the celebration.

The event once again underscored Holi as a unifying festival, bringing the Chicago community together in a vibrant expression of culture, tradition and joy.