Drifting away from the traditional practice of soaking in colours, city residents will this time celebrate a ‘responsible’ holi by saying no to use of water. Demonstrating a better sense of awareness, people have taken upon themselves the task of promoting camaraderie, the so very essential element of Holi, but not at the cost of health.
The Sindhi community is one group that brings to the fore the true flavour of Holi. Families belonging to the community gathered at Sindhi Bhavan on Sunday night for ‘Holika Dahan’ or ‘Choti Holi’, a ritual that precedes the actual celebrations. A bonfire is lit, and roasted grains, popcorn and chickpeas are thrown into it.
They will hit the streets on Monday and smear faces of passers-by with multiple hues. The crowd will then head to the sprawling open ground near Mahita School where all get involved in festivities, regardless of caste, age and gender.
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The community, which has organised rain dance in the past as part of Holi celebrations, has switched over to a ‘dry holi’ this year. “We have a theme every year for the celebrations. This year, we will play sans use of water and only with organic colours. This is the best part of the celebrations,” says Veena Achchepaliya, a community member.
Maheswari Bhavan near Kotha Gudlu centre in One Town will have a rare buzz, as it will turn into the hub of celebrations for members of the Maheswari Samaj. “The most endearing part of the celebrations is that it brings down caste and social barriers and ushers in oneness. We have a night of revelry with DJs, music bands, delicious food and bonding over the indispensable bhang,” says Kamal Bhattad, a member of Maheswari Samaj.
The revellers have also decided not to allow toxic, chemical-based colours. They are all geared up to indulge in a safe, eco-friendly merriment.
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