Our Team
The People Behind NOLA Holi
Board of Directors
NOLA Holi is organized by a dedicated Board of Directors comprising community leaders, volunteers, and passionate individuals who believe in the power of celebration to unite people. Together, they work year-round to bring this vibrant festival to life.
Meet Our Board
Arun Lakhotia
Founder & President
Arun founded NOLA Holi in honor of his late wife Michelle, bringing their shared dream of celebrating Holi in New Orleans to life. His vision and dedication continue to drive the festival's growth and success.
More board member profiles coming soon!
Want to get involved in festival leadership? Contact us
Our Mission
Our mission is to celebrate diversity, foster cultural understanding, and bring communities together through the joyful celebration of Holi in New Orleans. We honor Michelle Lakhotia's vision of unity through celebration while creating a FREE, family-friendly event that showcases the beauty of Indian culture and the spirit of New Orleans.
Celebrate Diversity
Honor and showcase the rich tapestry of cultures that make New Orleans unique, with special focus on Indian heritage and traditions.
Build Community
Create spaces where people of all backgrounds can come together, break down barriers, and form meaningful connections through shared celebration.
Educate & Inspire
Share the history and significance of Holi while inspiring others to embrace joy, forgiveness, and the celebration of new beginnings.
Volunteer Committee Leaders
In addition to our Board of Directors, NOLA Holi is supported by dedicated committee leaders who coordinate different aspects of the festival.
Event Operations
Logistics, venue coordination, permits, and day-of operations
Volunteer Coordination
Recruiting, training, scheduling, and supporting our volunteer team
Marketing & PR
Social media, press releases, community outreach, and promotion
Sponsorship
Securing sponsors, managing partnerships, and donor relations
Programming
Booking performers, coordinating entertainment, and cultural activities
Vendor Relations
Managing food vendors, artisans, and marketplace logistics
Join Our Team
Interested in taking a leadership role with NOLA Holi? We're always looking for passionate individuals to join our organizing team, serve on committees, or contribute their skills to making the festival even better.
In Memoriam
Michelle Lakhotia
NOLA Holi exists because of Michelle's vision, passion, and belief in the power of celebration to bring people together. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit lives on in every color thrown, every smile shared, and every moment of joy at the festival. This is her legacy, and we honor her memory with every celebration.
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