By: Roy Aker

More than 600 students will converge behind Coffman Union for a glorious riot of color and water Saturday.

The Color Fest, part of the traditional Indian celebration Holi, is being organized by Bharat-Representing India, in coordination with the University’s Spring Jam festivities.

Bharat president Vishakha Mathur said the annual event helps mark the onset of spring.

The timing is right — temperatures Friday hit 60s for the first time since November.

During the event, participants celebrate by throwing a mixture of herbal color powder and water into the air, covering each other with the mixture.

Holi, a religious festival for Hindus, has become popular in recent years with many non-Indian communities and groups.

The event is expected to have its highest turnout to date with a diverse group of students taking part.

Mathur said the event and others like it help support Indian students – specifically ones who are new to the country.

“It caters to many students who may be homesick or who’d like to connect with other Indian students.”

However, Mathur said, students of many cultural backgrounds participate in the festivities.

During the event, colors and water guns are provided free to students and traditional Indian appetizers will be available for purchase.

Mathur said the event has been on campus since 2008, but that is the second year the festival has coordinated with Spring Jam.

“This is really cheers to spring before we all get down to finals,” Mathur said.