A Call For Safer Holi

With the ceremonial Chir now standing tall at Basantapur, the colors of Holi have officially begun to fill the air. As we approach the celebrations on 2–3 March 2026, it is a moment not only of excitement but also of reflection. Holi is meant to be joyful, inclusive, and spiritually uplifting — and this year, more than ever, we should strive to make it safe for everyone.

Holi, at its heart, is not just about colours and celebration. It carries deep spiritual meaning rooted in the story of Prahlada, who triumphed through faith over the tyranny of Hiranyakashipu, while Holika — symbolising evil — was consumed by fire. The tale, centered on devotion to Lord Vishnu, reminds us that Holi is ultimately a celebration of the victory of good over evil. Remembering this essence can guide how we choose to celebrate today.

Yet, in recent years, Holi has increasingly drifted from its spirit. For many women, the festival brings anxiety rather than joy. Too often, individuals with ill intentions misuse the chaos of celebration to invade personal boundaries, turning a day of happiness into one of discomfort and fear. A truly festive Holi is one where women, children, and all community members feel safe stepping outside — not one where they must remain cautious.

Consent must therefore become central to how we celebrate. A simple question — “Can I put colour on you?” — can preserve dignity while still sharing joy. We must normalise respecting a “no,” recognising that choosing not to play Holi is a valid and personal decision.

There is also a growing need to rethink how we celebrate environmentally. The widespread use of plastic water balloons, or lolas, leaves streets covered in waste the next day and contributes to pollution. Moving toward eco-friendly celebrations — dry, natural colors, less water use, and eliminating single-use plastics — would honour both the festival and our responsibility to the environment. Banning lolas altogether is a conversation worth seriously considering.

Another concern is the increasing association of Holi with excessive drinking, blaring music, and public disorder. Celebration should not come at the cost of community harmony. With elections approaching, it is equally important that political groups do not exploit gatherings to provoke tensions. Holi should unite neighbourhoods, not divide them.

A safer Holi is also a healthier one. Using skin-safe, natural colours prevents allergies and injuries, especially for children. Communities, local authorities, and organisers can play a role by spreading awareness, promoting safe spaces, and responding swiftly to misconduct.

Ultimately, Holi is about joy, renewal, and togetherness. Imagine a festival where laughter replaces fear, where colors symbolise friendship rather than chaos, and where every person — regardless of gender — feels equally free to celebrate. That vision is entirely within our reach.

As the colours begin to appear across our streets this year, let us carry the true message of Holi forward: celebrate with kindness, respect boundaries, protect the environment, and keep the spirit of goodness alive. Only then can we truly say we have honoured the festival in its fullest sense.