Holi is a festival celebrated widely throughout India and is also known as the “festival of love.” Often represented through the popular activity of throwing vibrantly colored powder, it is a celebration in which people shed resentments of the past to rejoice together. Though originating from the Hindu religion, Holi helps unite different groups, as non-Hindus participate in the holiday as well. Throughout the country, different regions celebrate Holi in different ways; the state of Manipur enjoys a six-day festival, while other groups celebrate for one day and one night. Holi is rooted in multiple religious tales that celebrate the triumph of good over evil and truth over falsehood. For example, the famous colored powder originates from the story of the deities Krishna and Radha, and each color represents something (like red for love and green for new beginnings). Above all, Holi is a time to have fun and enjoy the loosening of social constraints; to drink bhang (an intoxicating drink made from cannabis leaves and buds), play practical jokes and dance.
Michael Mackrodt and Vladik Scholz had the opportunity to skateboard in Rajasthan during the festival. Their “wingman” David Zvereff describes skateboarding as “an activity that combines athletic endeavor with the urge to explore the cities of the world.” Director Patrik Wallner captured their journey and has also produced skateboarding films set in the Maldives, Georgia, Aremania, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa and many other countries.