Holi 2024: Eco Friendly Ways To Celebrate This Festival

Before the Holi celebration commences, we need keep in mind some basic norms which contribute towards a hygienic festivity, protecting the environment and keeping the human body safe.

Eco Friendly Ways To Celebrate Holi

Source : Getty

It's time to welcome the most beautiful season of the year- Spring Season, and with it arrives the much awaited festival of the year- Holi. People inhabiting all the corners of India celebrate Holi with high zeal and fervour. But before the celebration commences, we need keep in mind some basic norms which contribute towards a hygienic festivity, protecting the environment and keeping the human body safe.

Environment-Friendly Ways To Celebrate Holi:

Nandan Mall, Founder & MD of Hulladek Recycling shared some valuable insights for an environment-friendly celebration of colours. Following the below mentioned safeguards we can together contribute towards a Pollution free earth, a better place for living.

• Water Wastage Caution - The recent ongoing water crisis in Bengaluru is an example of the acute water shortage which can hugely impact the day to day life of the people and environment as a whole. This Holi, let's not unnecessarily waste water for temporary joy. Avoid mixing of colours in natural water bodies like lake, pond and well as this disturbs the natural water balance and is a life threat for the animals and plants. Also, thrashing water balloons and firing of colour pichkaris can be avoided or its use can be reduced.
• Waste Management - After the celebration gets over, it is advisable to throw the remaining of Water balloons, plastic pichkaris, flowers, plates and other used materials in a proper garbage bin so that it can collected and dumped to a safe and remote place. Such planned move contributes in smooth recycling of the waste so that the natural environment and lives inhibiting around will not get affected from foul smell and emission of the poisonous gases.
• Use Of Eco Friendly Containers - Avoid storing the celebration materials and foods in plastic or rubber containers which is harmful for nature's and human health.
• Be Alert Regarding The Noise Pollution - A responsible citizen is an asset for the nation. During any occasion it is always imperative to be aware of the basic civic responsibilities. There must be a limit on the sound level while celebration goes on. High music causes disturbance amongst the elderly generation and frightening issues amongst the children.
• Flora-Fauna Friendly Colours - Natural colours made from home-based products are a much better and safer option to play Holi. These can be easily made and offer a safer option for celebration as compared to the synthetic colours. Haldi mixed with besan or flour can give a yellow colour and work as a face-mask at the same time. Petals of Palash flower can be used to obtain a saffron colour. Beetroot soaked in water provides a bright magenta colour. Henna Powder, Gulmohar, and Hibiscus Flowers etc. can also be used to make different colours.
• Protection For Pregnant Women & New Born Children -The synthetic colours contain chemicals such as endotoxins and heavy metals which can cause moderate to severe health problems for the woman who is undergoing a state of pregnancy and the kids. These chemical laden colours result in skin issues, respiratory tract infections, conjunctivitis, corneal aberration and ocular damage. It is highly advisable for the Pregnant Woman and the children to indulge as much less as they can in the Holi celebrations.

Adding to the precautionary measures and an environment protected celebration Dr S Purkait of Techno India DAMA Hospital highlighted the following:

• We must avoid playing with open hair as the synthetic colours can cause permanent damage.
• We must make use of protective sunglasses.
• Our celebration will be incomplete without Holi Special Platter but one should not refrain from the fact that this is month of sheer heat and the environment around is also unfavourable. All these can lead to indigestion and also liver trouble. So, we need to consume less oily and spicy food.
• We must drink plenty of plain water. Consuming Coconut water and pure lassi, cools and heals the throat and is also a healthy substance for maintaining a stable human health.
• Strictly say 'No' to Alcohol and avoid taking any addictive products like Bhang and other kind of drugs to make the celebration prolonged and enjoy a deep hangover. Incase, the gathering compels you then take alcohol but in a controlled amount. 
• The mounting threat of Adeno Virus infection should be kept in mind. This is now a concerned disease especially in children. The elder generation also needs to be careful. The gathering and celebration can be a strong factor in affecting everyone with the Virus.

Eco-friendly Ways To Decorate Your Homes This Holi

As Holi approaches, it’s the perfect time to infuse your home decorations with an eco-friendly flair. Lalitesh Mandrekar, General Manager, Design, Godrej Interio suggested five creative ways to decorate your home sustainably for Holi:

• Green Oasis: Elevate your home's aesthetic while nurturing a greener environment with plant-based decorations. Enhance your living space with the vibrant charm of potted plants, succulents, or herb gardens, not only adding beauty but also purifying indoor air. Choose eco-conscious planters crafted from sustainable materials such as bamboo or recycled plastic, amplifying the eco-friendly essence of your home décor.
• Eco-Conscious Fusion- By supporting local artisans and choosing authentically sourced products, you can create a personalised and eco-conscious home that celebrates heritage and creativity. Explore flea markets, thrift stores, and ecommerce platforms to discover unique pieces. It will help to prep up your space and promote sustainability. 
• Colourful Table Settings: Elevate your Holi celebrations with eco-friendly table settings adorned with bright colours. Choose biodegradable plates, cups, and utensils made from materials like palm leaf or bamboo. Use colourful cloth napkins and table runners made from sustainable materials such as organic cotton or hemp. Add a festive touch with fresh flower centrepieces or potted plants for elevating the ambiance and mitigating environmental impact. With colourful table settings, you can indulge in the joy of feasting.
• Natural Dyes for Aesthetic Table Decor: Embrace the spirit of Holi by infusing your table settings with natural dyes, steering clear of synthetic colours that harm the environment. Opt for dyes derived from plant sources, such as turmeric for yellow, beetroot for pink, and spinach for green. These natural hues not only enliven your table but also uphold planet-friendly practices. Use these dyes to add colour to tablecloths, napkins, or craft intricate Rangoli patterns, celebrating both tradition and sustainability.
• Upcycled Innovations: Channelise your creativity by repurposing daily needs items into delightful Holi special décor. Repurpose glass bottles into attractive vases by painting them in eco-friendly hues or decorating them with twine and floral motifs. Create colourful combinations from old sarees or scarves to add a beautified feel to your walls. Adopt the upcycling technique to rejuvenate neglected treasures and reduce waste at the same time.