How Saying ‘Yes’ Changed My Holi Experience

The vibrant festival of Holi in 2017 holds a special place in my heart. It wasn’t just a celebration of colors; it was a transformative event born from a serendipitous moment in my life when I discovered the power of saying “yes.”

A Turning Point

In January 2017, life had thrown me an unexpected curveball—I was laid off and left wondering about my next steps. During that time, someone recommended I watch the movie Yes Man. The film’s message resonated deeply with me, encouraging me to embrace opportunities instead of hesitating.

It wasn’t long before my first “yes” came. Arif Urmani, the owner of Pearl Banquet, reached out to me. He asked if I could help manage his restaurant and banquet hall while waiting for my next job opportunity. At that time, his banquet had very little business, and I saw an opportunity to breathe life into it. That’s when the idea of organizing a Holi event struck me—a festival that symbolizes joy, unity, and new beginnings.

The First Event

This event marked my debut as an organizer. I had no prior experience, but I believed in the power of community and connection. To fund the event, I went door-to-door seeking sponsorship from local vendors in the Oaktree Road and Paripani areas.

To my surprise and delight, businesses like Suhag, Sitar, Raj Jewellers, MAS Mutual, and New York Life were incredibly supportive. Their generous sponsorships showed me the potential of collaboration and the strength of a positive approach.

The Celebration

On the day of Holi 2017, Pearl Banquet transformed into a vibrant haven of joy and togetherness. Families and friends came together to celebrate with music, dance, delicious food, and, of course, the iconic Holi colors. The event was a resounding success, filling the banquet hall with laughter, energy, and festive cheer.

A Lesson in Possibilities

This experience was not just about organizing an event—it was a turning point in my life. It taught me the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone, embracing opportunities, and believing in the potential of a simple “yes.”

The success of Holi 2017 also showed me the power of networking and community support. What began as a small idea during a challenging time blossomed into a celebration that brought people together and boosted local businesses.

Looking Back

Holi 2017 was the foundation for many future endeavors. It sparked my passion for organizing events and connecting with people, a journey that has continued to bring joy and purpose to my life.