Tag Archives: Holi

Sir John Stuart, Earl of Bute: Prime Minister and Botanist

Posted on March 10, 2012 by

March 10:  On this day in 1792, Sir John Stuart, Earl of Bute, Scottish nobleman and Prime Minister of Great Britain, died in London at the age of 78.  Though he is not well known in America, he should be.  His career in the court of King George III was significant in the shaping of events that led up to the American Revolution.  This includes his involvement in the French and Indian War, known as the Seven Years War in Great Britain.  His ensuing military decisions for the American colonies were also significant, such as the extended presence of British … Continue reading →

Posted in Botany, Culture, History, Horticulture | Tagged a dash of culture, American Revolution, botanical garden, botany, Bute, butea monosperma, Culture, culture dash, ethnobotanical, Festival of Colors, French and Indian War, Holi, Kew Garden, Linnaeus, Scotland, taxonomy | Leave a comment

Holi, The Festival of Colors

Posted on March 8, 2012 by

March 8 – Today begins the annual Hindu celebration of Holi, the Festival of Colors.  This bright and cheerful ancient rite falls on the full moon at the end of winter, ushering in the spring with reverie and fun.  As part of this traditional celebration, people throw colored powders and scented waters to mark the end of the old year and beginning of the new one.     One of the earliest written references to the Holi Festival is from the 7th century Sanskrit drama ‘Ratnavali’.  However, many older traditions come together in the Holi Festival.  Numerous annual rites relating … Continue reading →

Posted in Botany, Culture, History, Literature | Tagged a dash of culture, chick peas, Culture, culture dash, dye, ethnobotanical, Festival of Colors, flour, full moon, Hindu, Holi, India, Krishna, Radha, rose water, saffron, Sanskrit, spring, Tesu, turmeric | 1 Comment