Holi: of fun, flowers and a friendly feast

Come March and it is time for one of the most awaited festivals of the year, Holi. A festival of colour, camaraderie and celebration, Holi is all about spending time and bonding with family, friends and loved ones. Like all Indian festivals it celebrates the victory of good over evil.

Festival of Spring

It is that time of the year when winter has come to an end and the warmth has just begun to take over. There is greenery all around coupled with colourful flowers and blooms all around. Yes, Spring is in the air and this magical season is not only one of the most beautiful but is an ode to new beginnings. According to the Hindu Calendar it is the month of “Phalgun” which is one of the most auspicious times of the year. Holi is observed on the full moon night or Poornima of the Phalgun month.

Holi and the floral connection

Did you known that the festival of Holi is intrinsically associated with a flower? Well, yes this is true. The vibrant and bright flower of the “Tesu or Palaash” tree which is also known as the flame of the forest is the flower of Holi. Legend has it that Lord Krishna used to play Holi with these flowers and till date it is a custom in Vrindavan to play Holi with flowers. It is a tradition for people here to prepare the traditional yellow orange colour from the dried Palaash flowers to celebrate the festival and shower floral petals on one another.

Holi 2020: celebration with a difference

This year Holi falls on 9-March and given the times we live in, it is only right that we all celebrate the festival in the true spirit which means being conscious of our environment and ensuring that we protect it for the sake of our future generations. Holi is many a time associated with the indiscriminate use of chemical colours, water balloons and the mindless waste of galloons of water. It is high time we focus on the conservation of natural resources especially water for it is a resource that is both scarce and precious. It is imperative that we change with the times and work towards saving water as it is of paramount importance and our social responsibility. Here are ten tips for a water free Holi.

An eco-friendly bonfire

Holika Dehan usually happens on the eve of Holi. It is a time when families make offerings of sweet delicacies and flowers to the bonfire which is symbolic of destroying all things evil and negative. Ensure you follow the tradition in an environmentally friendly way and burn natural waste like coconut shells and cow dung cakes along with incense sticks and dhoop.

Tilak Holi

One of the easiest and simplest way to celebrate the essence of Holi is by applying the customary ‘tilak’ on the forehead. Soak in the festive vibes by spending time with family and friends.

Celebrate it with dry colours

There are several ways to make eco friendly colours which are also have innumerable benefits for the skin and hair. Use natural materials like hibiscus flowers for red colour, beetroot for a pink tinge, neem leaves for green, saffron for orange and turmeric for yellow. Rice flour is a key ingredient to make these dry colours. Sprinkling dry natural colours and having fun with family and friends is a great way to enjoy the festival without wasting copious amounts of water.

Play with flowers

If you cannot imagine holy without colours, you can also opt for floral petals. Spread positive vibes by showering petals on one another. Just ensure that the petals are disposed along with wet waste so it can be recycled.

Avoid playing with water balloons, water guns and pichkaris Spraying coloured water, getting wet all over and wasting galloons of water in having a bath and cleaning oneself can be completely avoided. Instead stick to a simple celebration, sans these gadgets.

Indulge in Spring Cleaning

Usher in the good vibes by spring cleaning your homes. Declutter, get rid of things that you do not use and flush out not only unnecessary stuff but also the negative vibes. Use a combination of flowers and organic colours to bring elegance to rangolis at the entrance or in verandas. Make floral arrangements in your living room to boost the positive, festive ambience.

Gorge on sumptuous food

No mention of celebration is complete without food. Invite friends and family over and bond over delectable gujiyas, kachoris and kheer. Have a potluck to add to the fun.

Painting and Rangoli competitions

If celebrating Holi in an apartment complex or a society, organize painting competitions for kids to make them understand the essence of colour. A rangoli competition for adults is a great idea too.

Indulge in song and dance

A fun karaoke, an impromptu dance or the all-time favourite antakshari are all fun ways to celebrate the festival. Holi is after all a time to foster friendships and bury past differences.

Send in those floral gifts

Sending flowers to loved ones is an excellent way to bond with them. Take time to choose meaningful flowers for the occasion and do not forget a hand written note to make the other person feel special and loved.