Changing 'colours' of Holi

Growing up in a secular neighbourhood, I always saw Holi as an occasion to celebrate togetherness – ignoring the existing societal barriers, cultural differences, and religious norms. However, time changed everything.

Gathering in the community park to splash colours on anyone passing by, singing and dancing to the tunes of holi-centric songs, and binge eating delicacies until the stomach starts to ache, all of it has become a rare sight nowadays.

Liquor has replaced the traditional Bhaang, and mouthwatering sweets (including Gujiya and jalebi) are avoided out of diet concerns. Overall, the festival of colours has reduced to 'a day off' from office. Contemplating the present situation, commoners talk about how the way of celebrating Holi has changed over the years.

In search of a better standard of living, many people have migrated from villages to cities – and in the process, self-centralism has become a predominant force.

According to various psychological studies, stress levels are also on the rise which has resulted in the decline of patience levels and people tend to be 'intolerant' less bothered about others.

-Harsh Khanna, Businessman

Until a decade ago, we actually used to gather at the community centre of our residential society and celebrate the festival. It used to be hours of celebration with neighbours, relatives, and a thousand friends. But the increasing economic burden on families has forced people to keep the celebrations minimal. Instead of large gatherings, it is just about close friends and relatives.

Moreover, urbanisation and rise of nuclear families has further worsen the situation.

-Mayank Bhardwaj, Engineer

Why just Holi? Look at any festival that we celebrate. We're more virtually connected to each other now, and the physical connect is almost non-existent. Also, we are no longer interested in nurturing relationships and rather prefer spending 'me time' - binge-watching the trending shows.

The charm, and spirit of festivals have almost disappeared, and they are losing the real essence.

-Akshit Juneja, Entrepreneur

I believe the community culture changes after every 100 kilometers. Owing to the different lifestyles and working patterns, way of celebrating an occasion also differs a lot.

It was only after I migrated to a metro city that I observed how people in rural areas are more sociable, and stressful lives of city dwellers hampers the festive joy.

Having said that, I don't believe the community culture has completely lost its existence today. It's still extant.

Even today, people like me celebrate the occasion with family, neighbours, and cousins.

The only difference that I observe is the amount of enthusiasm and zest, which has dropped down with age. And I believe it is very natural.

-Akshay Kumar, Pr Professional

I enjoyed Holi celebration more as a kid than I do now. Today, it feels unsafe to step out of the house and roam around the society freely.

Earlier the preparations would begin at least a week before – where we would fill buckets with water balloons, stock up colours boxes, look out for the coolest pichkaris in the market, and play for hours without worrying about anything; but things have changed to a great extent. Now, Holi celebration is more of a custom which is mandatorily practiced, but wraps up within a few hours.

-Gayatri Mohan, Journalist