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Holi, the festival of colours, is near. It is a time of joy, togetherness, and vibrant celebrations.
However, the widespread use of chemical-based colours has raised concerns about skin allergies, pollution, and environmental damage. With increasing awareness, many people are choosing organic colours to enjoy a safer and more eco-friendly Holi.
Why ditch chemical colours?
Traditional Holi colours were made from flowers, turmeric, and natural herbs, but over time, chemical-based dyes became common due to their bright hues and lower cost. Unfortunately, these synthetic colours often contain lead, mercury, and other toxic substances, leading to skin rashes, eye irritation, and respiratory issues.
According to dermatologists, Many synthetic Holi colours contain harmful metals that can cause severe allergies and long-term skin damage. Organic colours, on the other hand, are completely safe and gentle.
Besides health concerns, these chemicals pollute water bodies when washed away, harming aquatic life and soil fertility.
The growing shift towards organic colours
As awareness grows, people are switching back to natural and handmade Holi colours. Many eco-conscious brands and local artisans now offer herbal gulal made from dried flowers, fruits, and plant extracts.
Pragya Sharma, a social entrepreneur from Jaipur, started making organic Holi colours from temple flower waste. “It started as a small initiative, but today, many people prefer these natural colours for a safe and sustainable celebration,” she shares.
DIY organic Holi colours: Made at home with kitchen ingredients
Making Holi colours at home is easy, safe, and fun! Here are some simple DIY recipes using everyday kitchen ingredients:
- Yellow: Mix turmeric with gram flour or cornstarch for a bright, skin-friendly yellow.
- Pink: Dry rose petals or beetroot peels, grind them into a fine powder, and mix with rice flour.
- Green: Crush neem leaves, coriander, or spinach, dry them, and grind into a fine powder.
- Red: Use dried hibiscus flowers or red sandalwood powder for a deep, natural red.
- Purple: Blend Jamun (black plum) or grapes with water for a rich purple shade.
- Saffron/Orange: Soak Tesu flowers (Flame of the Forest) in water overnight for a beautiful saffron colour.
These homemade colours smell amazing, are gentle on the skin, and have natural antibacterial benefits!
Ways to make your Holi more eco-friendly
Playing Holi responsibly isn’t just about colours. Here are some simple ways to make your celebrations greener:
- Use water wisely: Play dry Holi or limit water balloons.
- Avoid plastic waste: Say no to plastic packaging and disposables.
- Support local artisans: Buy handmade, herbal colours instead of synthetic ones.
- Choose natural sweets: Opt for homemade or locally sourced Holi treats.
- Be mindful of animals: Avoid throwing colours on stray animals, as they may be harmful.
A festival of colours, not chemicals
Holi is about spreading happiness, and making small eco-friendly choices ensures that our celebrations do not harm the planet. As more people choose organic colours and sustainable practices, Holi can once again become a festival that is as kind to nature as it is to people.
This year, let’s play Holi the way it was meant to be—vibrant, joyful, and eco-friendly!
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