Category Archives: News

The New Sound of Holi: Merging Traditional Ragas with EDM Beats for a Modern Celebration

Holi, the festival of colors, was once a slow, melodious affair. Imagine a crisp March morning in North India, where elders would gather in courtyards, smeared in organic gulaal, singing “Rang Barse” in their earthy voices, accompanied by the unhurried strumming of a harmonium and the gentle beat of a dholak. The air would be filled with the fragrance of tesu flowers soaked overnight, used to make natural colors, and the lingering aroma of gujiyas and thandai.

This was the Holi of our grandparents—rooted in folk traditions, where thumris, dadras, and kajris were the anthems of the festival. Whether it was the classical elegance of Kishori Amonkar’s “Piya Sang Khelo Holi” or the devotional resonance of Meera bhajans, Holi was a day where music echoed the rhythms of nature itself.

Brij Ke Rang, Bollywood Ka Dhamaka

“As Bollywood seeped into everyday life, Holi began transforming. From being a festival where classical and folk music dominated, it started syncing with the film industry’s drum beats. Amitabh Bachchan’s “Rang Barse” (Silsila, 1981) and Rajesh Khanna’s “Aaj Na Chhodenge” (Kati Patang, 1971) became Holi staples. The festival was no longer just about cultural nostalgia, it was about cinematic celebration.” says Thomson Andrews, a versatile artist and creative entrepreneur.

Soon, Holi scenes in Bollywood films became grander, more dramatic, more technicolor in both visuals and sounds. The infectious beats of “Holi Khele Raghuveera” (Baghban, 2003) and the electrifying energy of “Balam Pichkari” (Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, 2013) solidified the festival’s transition. No Holi party was complete without a Bollywood playlist blasting from speakers taking the festival from courtyards to club-style revelry.

Desi Bass and Dhol Drops

The real revolution, however, came with the DJ culture and electronic music invasion. The last decade has seen Holi evolve into a massive festival of bass-thumping, smoke-machine-blaring, neon-paint-throwing parties.

Enter Nucleya, Ritviz, and DJ Chetas, and suddenly, Holi isn’t just about throwing colors—it’s about dropping beats. Songs like “Bass Rani” and “Udd Gaye” have become the modern-day Holi anthems. Music festivals like Holi Moo, Rangotsav, and Sunburn Holi have turned the festival into a massive carnival, blending Indian folk with international EDM, techno, and trap beats.

Gujiyas and Glow Sticks: Where Do We Go from Here?

So, what’s next? Will Holi continue to be an EDM spectacle, or will there be a nostalgia-fueled return to its folk roots? With the rise of indie musicians and the revival of fusion genres, perhaps the future of Holi lies in a perfect mix of both worlds—where dholak meets dubstep, and thumri blends seamlessly with trap beats.

Whether you prefer a soothing morning raga with chai or a neon-lit EDM night with mocktails, one thing is certain: Holi will always be a festival where music reigns supreme. After all, whether it’s through a harmonium or a DJ console, Holi is, and always will be, about celebration, rhythm, and an explosion of colors.

Aditya Gadhvi Live in Ahmedabad and Surat: Tribevibe Entertainment Sets the Stage for a Memorable Performance

Surat/Ahmedabad, March 7th 2025: Tribevibe Entertainment is bringing the sensational Aditya Gadhvi to Ahmedabad and Surat for an unforgettable live concert experience, this March! Aditya Gadhvi, renowned for his mesmerising voice and folk-fusion music, will take the stage to perform his biggest hits, including ‘Khalasi’, ‘Naagar Nandji Na Lala’, ‘Hansala’ and many more. Fans can expect an immersive musical journey celebrating Gujarat’s rich heritage and contemporary rhythms.

Heading first to Surat, Aditya Gadhvi will perform at the C.B. Patel Cricket Stadium on Sunday, March 16th and then head to Ahmedabad to perform at the Savanna Party Lawn on Saturday, March 22nd, 2025.

Aditya Gadhvi shared his excitement about the upcoming concerts, saying, “Performing in Gujarat is always special for me. The energy and love from my fans here are unmatched and I can’t wait to share this musical journey with them in Surat and Ahmedabad.”

Shoven Shah, Founder & CEO of Tribevibe Entertainment, added, “At Tribevibe, we are committed to delivering unforgettable live entertainment experiences. Bringing Aditya Gadhvi’s incredible talent to Surat and Ahmedabad aligns perfectly with our vision of celebrating India’s rich musical heritage.”

International Women’s Day 2025 by Dr. Sara Varughese, Managing Trustee, CBM India Trust

By-Dr. Sara Varughese, Managing Trustee, CBM India Trust

“This year’s International Women’s Day focuses on two themes, ‘For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment’ and ‘Accelerate Action’. Both call for urgent, transformative strides toward gender equity. Achieving this requires society to ensure that all women, including women with disabilities and those from other marginalized groups, have equal voice, rights, and opportunities.

Data shows that women with disabilities face a double burden, as discrimination based on gender and disability reinforce each other. Beyond the employment gap where only 23% of women with disabilities have jobs compared to 47% of men with disabilities (UNDP), they also experience reduced access to education, healthcare, and political representation. Addressing these inequalities demands sustained efforts to create fair opportunities and participation at every level.

At CBM India, we believe that accelerating action means systematically dismantling the structural barriers excluding women and enabling their full engagement in education, health, livelihoods, and community development.

Our commitment to gender equity is demonstrated through some of our past and present initiatives. One example is an inclusive garment production unit we set up in Karnataka, which provided vocational training and employment to women with and without disabilities. Another is Sankalp, a women’s credit cooperative we established in Maharashtra with over 9,000 women members. Our humanitarian action efforts include a women-led mangrove reforestation project, while our healthcare initiatives extend to marginalized communities through an eye health program for trans women in Hyderabad.

On this International Women’s Day, we renew our dedication to advancing gender justice and disability inclusion. We are committed to creating spaces where every woman participates with dignity and autonomy. Together, we can drive collective action toward a society where rights and equity are realized for all women and girls, today and every day.”

University of Leeds Scientists Develop Promising Solutions for Chronic Pain Sufferers

Researchers led by Professor Nikita Gamper of the University of Leeds’ School of Biomedical Sciences have found that the body can efficiently make its own specific “sleeping pills” that, like benzodiazepines, dull impulses from a specific nerve and regulate an individual’s level of discomfort.

 The results, complemented by earlier research by Professor Gamper and Professor Xiaona Du of Hebei Medical University in Shijiazhuang, China, may lead to a major advancement in pain management and a shift away from potent opioids like morphine or fentanyl. Scientists working on the study will look more closely at how this could benefit those who suffer from chronic pain with new research funding announced for the New Year.

 According to Professor Gamper’s statement, “We know a lot about how people experience pain, but there isn’t much we can do about it. Opioids continue to be the gold standard despite all of the incredible findings and textbooks that have been written. No significant improvement over opioids has been made. If you have pain, you will probably be prescribed either opioids, which are really effective but hazardous, or ibuprofen, which is fine for mild pain but completely useless for severe pain or neuropathic pain.”

 A class of depressive medications known as benzodiazepines, or “benzos,” are used as sleeping aids and to treat anxiety and seizures. At the University of Cincinnati, Professor Gamper and his colleagues Professor Du and Dr. Temugin Berta discovered that some cells that are connected to human nerves and reside in structures known as spinal ganglia can emit a peptide that functions similarly to benzos. These peptides do not, however, put the entire nervous system to sleep because the process is restricted to the peripheral nervous system; as a result, they do not pose the same concerns as dangerous and addictive opioids.

 According to the research, nerves have the ability to “tune out” pain signals or limit how much pain the brain perceives a person to be feeling.

 The results may provide patients attempting to manage chronic pain on a daily basis some optimism, according to Dr. Ganesan Baranidharan, a pain management consultant in Leeds. He stated: “One of the main issues facing the health service is chronic pain. Physiotherapy, injections, and surgeries are some of the ways that we try to help people in clinics manage their pain. Another method is “self-management,” which involves learning to live with pain. But long-term use of opioids and nerve medications can have serious side effects, like memory loss and zombie-like feelings, and some patients will have chronic pain that requires medication. In order to treat chronic pain, we need other options, even though some individuals respond quite effectively to small doses of opioids. Our patients will benefit more from our continued research and development of suitable medications to cure certain ailments.”

Their findings have been published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation.

 Pain is a daily burden for up to one-third of the world’s population, and even though it is the main cause of medical visits worldwide, it is still not adequately managed. Furthermore, Dr. Berta of Cincinnati, whose work is supported by the NIH HEAL effort, stated: “Millions of people experience chronic pain, and over half struggle to find appropriate relief.” As pain researchers, we have the chance to identify novel processes that underlie the development of chronic pain and to disseminate discoveries that could advance therapeutic approaches.

 Seeing a member of his close family experience neuropathic pain had a significant impact on Professor Gamper’s decision to concentrate his research in this field. In the end, he continued, “the ability or at least the opportunity to relieve people from pain drives you, not curiosity. Pain is an interesting phenomenon to study.”

 While the scientists had never met before, they were familiar with each other’s work and quickly discovered that they had been working on related tests that yielded identical results. Their work “embodies the collaborative spirit of academic research,” according to Dr. Berta, and demonstrates how scientists may collaborate to make important strides in our understanding and treatment of pain. The Medical Research Council and the pharmaceutical sector have recently awarded £3.5 million to a Leeds research team headed by Professor Gamper to further investigate their findings. Beginning in January 2025 and lasting five years, a new study will examine novel methods of pain management and possible indicators of neuropathic pain in greater detail, taking into account the new information regarding spinal ganglia and the “benzo” peptide.

MediBuddy’s HerHealthBuddy Inspires Change and Awareness Around Women’s Health on Women’s Day

National, 07 March 2025: MediBuddy, India’s largest digital healthcare company, is marking International Women’s Day with an interactive campaign—#HerHealthBuddy. This initiative aims to challenge misconceptions, break stigmas and educate individuals about crucial aspects of women’s health. Through an engaging quiz format, expert insights and myth-busting facts, the campaign empowers women to take control of their well-being and encourages society to prioritise women’s health beyond just one day of recognition.

Women’s health is often overlooked, misunderstood, or surrounded by misinformation. To bridge the knowledge gap, #HerHealthBuddy presents an interactive challenge—testing awareness of essential topics like menstruation, reproductive health and medical disparities.

With questions such as, “How many years does the average woman spend menstruating?” and “What’s the most common undetected health condition among women?”, the campaign highlights vital but often unspoken facts. Each answer is backed by educational insights, shedding light on overlooked health concerns such as thyroid disorders, period stigma and the gender gap in medical research.

Women’s health isn’t just a ‘women’s issue’—it’s a family issue that impacts a community and ultimately spirals into a global issue. While society celebrates women’s achievements, real progress requires prioritising their health through education, support, and systemic change.

Speaking about the campaign, Saibal Biswas, SVP and Head of Marketing, PR and Partnerships, MediBuddy, said, “Women often bear the weight of complex biological experiences, managing incredible bodily transformations with remarkable resilience. However, the lack of comprehensive health education—the belief that women must endure health challenges silently—often leads to misunderstandings and self-neglect. With #HerHealthBuddy, we’re taking a step towards changing that narrative. Knowledge is power, and by educating women and those around them, we empower them to make informed choices about their health. This Women’s Day, let’s do more than celebrate. Let’s care. Let’s educate. Let’s #AccelerateAction.”

MediBuddy aims to bridge the gap between awareness and action, urging women to prioritise their well-being and seek comprehensive healthcare support.

Kuklah’s New School: A Step Towards a Greener Future with Unmatched Sustainability

When relentless rains swept through Himachal Pradesh in 2023, Government Primary School Kuklah in Mandi district was completely washed away. The school, which originally comprised seven classrooms, two toilets, and a kitchen for the Mid-Day Meal programme, served 35 students and had a staff of five, including two support members.

 In the immediate aftermath of the disaster, the school remained non-operational for 10 days. Determined to continue their children’s education, the local community and school staff arranged for makeshift classes in a village temple.

 Kishan Chand, a resident of Kuklah gram panchayat, recalls the difficult transition: “With our school gone, our children had no choice but to study in the local temple. The space was cramped, and the lack of proper facilities made it hard for them to concentrate on their lessons. It was a struggle every day.”

 The loss of the school was more than the loss of a building – it disrupted a safe space where children learned, played, and built their future. Understanding the gravity of the situation, SEEDS (Sustainable Environment and Ecological Development Society), with the support of PwC India Foundation, stepped in – not just to rebuild, but to create a school that would be stronger, more sustainable, and better suited to the region’s needs.

 Duni Chand, the head of GPS Kuklah: “For the past one and a half years, our students have been studying in the village temple, struggling in a difficult environment. When the SEEDS team visited our school, they immediately saw the need to reconstruct it. They worked with PwC India Foundation to start the work. Now, our children have a proper space to continue their education.”

 The newly constructed school integrates child-friendly architecture with environmentally conscious construction techniques. Designed with long-term resilience in mind, it features modern classrooms, improved sanitation facilities, and access to clean drinking water. Special attention was given to creating a safe, secure, and dignified learning environment.
Semi-open learning spaces were incorporated to complement the hilltop climate, ensuring shaded areas and maximizing natural light and ventilation for an energy-efficient setting.

 One of the standout features of the new school is its shallow dome construction technique on the ground floor roof. By replacing steel and concrete with brick, the design significantly reduces the building’s carbon footprint, cuts down construction costs, and shortens the overall construction timeline.

 On the first floor, large windows replace conventional walls, allowing adjustable natural lighting and improved airflow. The North light roof design optimizes diffused daylight, ensuring a bright yet soft illumination throughout the day.
Additionally, low sill heights keep students visually connected to the outdoors, creating an environment where they feel comfortable and learn better.

 Beyond just rebuilding the school, the project became a community-driven effort. Over 90% of the workforce involved in construction was sourced locally, providing immediate employment and strengthening community engagement.

 Champa Kumari, a School Management Committee member whose daughter attends the school, speaks about the community’s involvement:
“The villagers were also involved in various activities during the school construction project. This school belongs to us all, and we took ownership of rebuilding it. The sense of community extended beyond just construction work. As the building was taking shape, the construction team and community observed Diwali, while students celebrated Children’s Day on the campus even as work continued. These moments of joy reassured both the community and the students that progress was being made and the school would soon be functional.”

 The initiative also supported the regional economy by sourcing materials and services from local businesses, reinforcing the importance of sustainable, community-led development. Today, 53 students, including 24 boys and 29 girls, have access to a safe, well-equipped learning environment—one that will stand resilient in the face of future climate challenges.
As India continues to face climate-related challenges, the demand for disaster-resilient and sustainable schools is more urgent than ever. Dr. Manu Gupta, Co-founder of SEEDS, emphasizes the critical role of education in post-disaster recovery:

“After any disaster, getting children back to school is one of the most important steps toward healing. Schools provide a sense of routine, safety, and hope. By reconstructing disaster-resilient schools, we ensure that children can overcome trauma and return to a state of normalcy, allowing them to focus on learning and rebuilding their future.”

Gillco International School Commemorates National Science Day with Interactive Student Activities

Mohali: Gillco International School marked National Science Day with an engaging showcase of scientific creativity, where students of Classes VI-VIII presented a series of innovative projects and experiments. The event aimed to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and a hands-on approach to learning among young minds.

Students demonstrated a wide array of projects, covering themes such as environmental conservation, technological advancements, and real-world problem-solving. Their innovative models and experiments highlighted their keen understanding of scientific principles and their potential applications. Teachers, parents, and peers enthusiastically engaged with the budding scientists, appreciating their efforts and encouraging a deeper exploration of scientific concepts.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Kritika Kaushal, Principal of Gillco International School, said, “At Gillco International School, we believe that science is not just about learning facts but about questioning, exploring, and innovating. Events like these empower our students to think critically and develop a problem-solving mindset. It is truly inspiring to see our young learners demonstrate such enthusiasm and creativity in science. We are committed to nurturing their curiosity and preparing them to be future innovators.”

World Sleep Day Preview: Medica Hosts Panel of Experts to Raise Awareness on Sleep Health

Kolkata/Mumbai, 7th March’25: Medica Superspecialty Hospital, a part of the Manipal Hospital Group, hosted an insightful panel discussion today on ‘Sleep Health’ to commemorate upcoming World Sleep Day on 14th March 2025. The discussion brought together esteemed medical professional including Dr. Kunal Sarkar, Senior Vice Chairman, Senior Cardiac Heart Surgeon & Head MICS, (Prof.) Dr. Subhankar Chowdhury, Director, Department of Diabetes & Endocrinology, Dr. Pradeepta kumar Sethy, Director – Gastroenterology from the hospital along with (Prof.) Dr. Anirban Roy – renowned Psychiatrist as panelists to shed light on the impact of sleep on overall health and well-being. The discussion was skillfully moderated by Dr. Shaswati Sengupta Datta, Senior Consultant, ENT & Sleep Apnea and Dr. Souvik Roy Choudhury, Senior Consultant, ENT & Sleep Apnea.

Good sleep is the cornerstone of well-being, yet it is being neglected in this fast-paced era. On this World Sleep Day, under the slogan “Make Sleep Health a Priority,” it is essential to understand that quality sleep is not a luxury but a need for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Poor sleep can lead to all manner of illnesses, from weakened immunity to increased stress and chronic disease. The catchphrase behind the panel discussion was to get people to realize on how by developing good sleep habits—such as having a regular sleep routine, limiting screen time at night, and making the environment calming—people can improve their productivity during the day, our mood, and our overall health.

Facilitated by Dr. Shaswati Sengupta Datta, the session enlightened participants about the importance of identifying sleep disorders, their symptoms, and availing themselves of early medical care. Highlighting the extensive influence of sleep on one’s well-being, Dr. Sengupta Datta said, “Good health begins with quality sleep, yet many overlook warning signs like chronic snoring, daytime sleepiness, and difficulty concentrating—often early indicators of underlying health issues. Even pediatric sleep problems, if ignored, can hinder a child’s physical, behavioral, and social development. Establishing healthy sleep habits from an early age is essential, though it’s never too late to make positive changes. Seeking professional evaluation and timely intervention can prevent long-term complications and significantly improve overall well-being.”

During the discussion, Dr. Kunal Sarkar, emphasized the connection between sleep and cardiovascular health. “Poor sleep is directly associated with hypertension, arrhythmias, and a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases. A routine sleep schedule is as important as a healthy diet and exercise for heart health.”

(Prof.) Dr. Subhankar Chowdhury, outlined the relationship of sleep with metabolic disorders. “Chronic lack of sleep disorganizes glucose metabolism, causing a risk increase for diabetes and obesity. A well-timed sleep pattern is important to ensure hormonal balance as well as for good metabolic function.”

While interacting, Dr. Pradeepta Kumar Sethy, described how sleep patterns affect digestive health. “Irregular sleep patterns can exacerbate conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome, and indigestion. A regular sleep schedule maintains digestive function and prevents stress-related gut problems.”

In discussing the significance of quality sleep, (Prof.) Dr. Anirban Roy, Psychiatrist, highlighted the interconnection between sleep and mental health. “Sleep and emotional well-being are very closely linked. Sleep deprivation is a significant cause of anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment. Prioritizing good sleep hygiene can make a big difference in mental clarity and resilience.”

Dr. Souvik Roy Choudhury, while concluding the discussion, highlighted the serious impact of chronic sleep disorders. He stated, “Sleep apnea and insomnia, two of the most prevalent sleep disorders, not only disrupt sleep but also pose significant health risks, including hypertension, heart disease, and cognitive impairment. A Forbes report from last year revealed that for every 100 male OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnea) patients, there are approximately 50-60 female patients. Women with obesity, polycystic ovarian syndrome, those who are postmenopausal, or pregnant are at a higher risk of developing OSA. The condition is also common in children, even preschoolers, often manifesting as hyperactivity, attention deficits, mood swings, poor academic performance, and growth issues. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are crucial for effective management. By incorporating lifestyle changes, seeking medical guidance, and adhering to prescribed treatments, individuals can significantly improve sleep quality and overall well-being.”

Regarding the panel discussion, Dr. Ayanabh Debgupta, Regional Chief Operating Officer, Manipal Hospitals (East), stated, “Prioritizing our health is essential, and quality sleep plays a vital role in maintaining overall well-being. I am glad that we organized this panel discussion at our hospital today, to raise awareness on this important topic, with esteemed senior doctors from various specialties sharing their insights as panelists.”

Kamya Panjabi to Women on Women’s Day: Every Day is Ours to Be Appreciated

Women’s Day isn’t just a celebration; it’s a reminder of strength, resilience, and the power of womanhood. Kamya Panjabi, who mesmerizes audiences as the fierce Mohini in Sun Neo’s much-loved Ishq Jabariya, opened up about what the day means to her. Known as one of the strongest women in the television industry, Kamya shared her experiences of portraying powerful female characters on screen and revealed who inspires her in real life.

Kamya shared, “For me, every day is Women’s Day! I don’t wait for a special date to celebrate my life, my mother, my daughter, my friends, or the incredible women of this country. Women don’t need just one day of appreciation—we deserve it every single day. I hope more people understand this. Instead of limiting our recognition to just one date on the calendar, let’s celebrate women every day for their strength, sacrifices, and contributions in every role—whether as mothers, daughters, wives, or professionals. It’s not about making grand preparations; it’s about changing our mindset and truly valuing the women in our lives.”

Opening up about the women who inspire her the most in life, the Ishq Jabariya actress expressed, “You know, it might sound surprising, but my biggest inspiration comes from my two younger sisters, Mala and Madhu. There were moments in my life when I felt lost, when expectations weighed me down, but they were always there—lifting me up, standing by me like a rock. Despite being younger, they have inspired me in ways I can’t even explain. Their strength, resilience, and unwavering support have shaped me into who I am today. They may be my little sisters, but in so many ways, they are my guiding force.”

Kamya has won millions of hearts with her powerful onscreen portrayals. Talking about the same, she said, “I have always played strong female characters—whether it was Sindura, Preeto, Didun, or now Mohini in Sun Neo’s Ishq Jabariya. Maybe that’s because, in real life too, I am headstrong, determined, and never one to give up. Television, after all, belongs to women! Let’s be honest—women rule the industry. Yes, there are many amazing male actors, but at its core, television is driven by strong female characters who connect deeply with audiences. And I am forever grateful for all the love people have given to my characters. So, on this Women’s Day, let’s not just talk about opportunities and struggles—everyone has their own journey. Let’s simply celebrate women for who they are.”

Kamya currently plays the role of Mohini in Sun Neo’s Ishq Jabariya, airing on at 10:00 PM. The show is a compelling love story that follows Gulki, a strong-willed young woman with big dreams. With a stellar cast also featuring Dipshikkha Nagpal, Siddhi Sharma, and Lakshay Khurana, the show brings emotion and depth to its captivating narrative.

Celebrating Colours Safely: Important Guidelines for a Secure Festival

As one of the largest festival of India, Holi is approaching experts from Techno India DAMA Hospital, Monoshij – A Mental Health Unit of Techno India Group and Disha Eye Hospitals shared their insights on how to indulge in a joyous and a safe celebration of Colours for the pregnant women, children, elderly generation, those who are Chromophobic and the simple basic ways for protecting the environment and the innocent stray animals.

1. Dr MS Purkait, Medical Superintendent, Techno India DAMA Hospital

Pregnant women should participate in Holi but should exercise restraint and caution –

i. Should not indulge in alcohol or other inebriants .

ii. Should stay away from places where there is congestion and smoke.

iii. Not overindulge in sweets and other greasy ,unhealthy food.

iv. Should not drink water from roadside stalls etc .

v. Should take special care in cases of twin pregnancy or having other risk factors like hypertension ,Diabetes,heart conditions etc.

vi. Should use only organic colours .

vii. They should not stay out in the open air for a longer period of time.

Just before the monsoons and also during change of seasons, there are a lot of allergens and pollutants in the atmosphere which should be avoided.There could also be an outbreak of seasonal viruses especially H2N1 and other Adeno viruses causing cough, cold,fever and other respiratory symptoms.

If anyone is exhibiting these symptoms, they should take appropriate preventive measures and should practice social distancing.

2. Ms Pragya Priya Mandal, Counselling Psychologist, Monoshij

To ensure safe and fun-filled Holi, there are certain points to keep in mind:

1. It is vital to not cross the boundaries of those who do not wish to participate. Holi as an event or the colours and celebrations it entails might be associated with past trauma for certain individuals, triggering them on being forced to participate. It can also be over stimulating for people with social anxiety and autism to be exposed to the crowd and the loud noise of explosive cap guns.

2. People with Chromophobia prefer to stay indoors fearing the possibility of coming into contact with their phobic colours. Especially during Holi, it is a difficult time for them since those colours can trigger intense anxiety attacks. For people living with these difficulties, it is extremely important for the community to be kind and careful when dealing with those who show reluctance to participate for reasons they might not even feel comfortable to share.

3. An equally important point to remember is that ‘Bura na maano, holi hai’ is not an excuse to establish non-consensual physical contact with those who are uncomfortable. Take consent before applying colours.

4. To lose oneself in the festival to the extent that one overlooks the stray animals and their discomfort is unfair. Refrain from spraying harmful colours at them or shooting guns too close to them, the loud noise can be traumatic for the strays who do not possess the ability to articulate their discomfort and pain.

5. There can be risky behaviour linked to consumption of bhaang as a traditional practice on the day, leading to impulsive, aggressive behaviour, which can be disturbing for a lot of other individuals. It is important to keep a check on the consumption and the behaviour without crossing a boundary so as to ensure that other participants of the festival can comfortably enjoy the occasion as well.

6. There are individuals among us who might be going through personal losses, or those without a strong social circle. Ensure including people who do not have a strong social circle to play with, or those who are isolated. Be emotionally present for those who require emotional support.

7. To play with colours does not necessarily mean involving crowd and loud noises. It can even be played indoors with family, in a quiet environment, with powdered colours and good food. There is always an alternative to chaos. There is no reason to feel guilty about not wanting to participate in crowded spaces as it is not a zone of comfort for everyone.

8. While it is Holi, it is also the season of board examinations, and students appearing this year might not get the opportunity to dedicate as much time to the festival because of their preparations. This can be disheartening and isolating for them as well, a sense of feeling caged and lonely. For them, especially, it can be helpful to spend at least a few moments with their family and close friends, even if that is on virtual media, and reminding themselves that this is just a temporary restriction, and bigger celebrations are soon to come.

9. Being compared to the colourful pictures on social media celebrating the festival with grandeur can be triggering and isolating to a lot of individuals who may not get to enjoy it the same way. It is important to understand that most of what can be seen on social media are portrayals rather than reality. Grandeur is not the sole factor determining the beauty and meaning to an event, every celebration, every festivity is personal, and it is more about how one wants to celebrate with what they have, even if that does not look as shiny as the crowd of posts on social media.

10. Holi’s vibrant colors are a visual treat but let them not affect your vision. Gulal colours weren’t always synthetic. Traditionally, they were crafted from natural plant and flower extracts. However, over time, harmful chemicals have replaced these organic dyes. These toxic chemicals not only can affect us with harmful damages to our skin, eyes, body but also the environment around us. Let’s reclaim Holi’s joy by celebrating with safety and natural colors.

3. Dr Ketaki Subedar Ghosh, Consultant – Pediatric Ophthalmology, Disha Eye Hospitals

The Main causes of eye problems in children during Holi and steps for prevention and cure –

1. Corneal scratches, pink eye & blinding chemical burns caused by synthetic colours like yellow containing heavy metals like lead, malachite containing green, shining mica particles in red colour or the silvery metallic varnish paint.

2. Eye trauma by Water balloons & Water guns. Kids love to play with water balloons the most but they pose a significant risk of blunt eye injuries. A direct hit by ballon or high speed jet from water gun can cause blinding internal bleeding or retinal detachment.

Take precautions

1. Use protective eye wear or sunglasses or simple glasses while playing with colours

2. Never put colour on others around the eyes!

3. Fasten or tie hair together by using a cap to prevent colour dripping into the eyes

4. Avoid aiming at face with balloons or water guns.

5. Apply thick layers of coconut oil around your eyes as it will help the colour to get off easily without causing harm to eyes

6. It is always important to keep an eye on the kids.

Quick guide if colour enters the eye

1. Flush with water: Immediately rinse your eye with plenty of clean water to remove the colour.

2. Remove contact lenses (if applicable): Take out your contact lenses to prevent the colour from getting trapped underneath.

3. Avoid rubbing: Gently pat the area around your eye dry with a clean cloth. Avoid rubbing your eye, as this can push the colour further into your eye.

4. Use eye wash or saline solution: If available, use an eye wash or saline solution to help flush out the colour.

5. Seek medical attention: If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

– Severe eye pain or burning

– Blurred vision or vision loss

– Redness or swelling of the eye

– Discharge or pus in the eye

– Increased sensitivity to light

Eye drops such as artificial tear drops (carboxymethyl cellulose) may be applied safely. Do not self-medicate with steroid eye drops without consulting a doctor first.

DIY Natural Colors

For the kiddos ditch synthetic colors and celebrate Holi with eco-friendly, home-made natural colors. These are easy to make, safe, and offer a unique experience. If DIY isn’t your thing, opt for organic and vegetable-sourced colors available in the market. These are a great alternative to synthetic colors and ensure a safer Holi celebration

1. Yellow: Mix haldi (turmeric) with besan (gram flour) for a vibrant yellow color that doubles as a face mask.

2. Saffron: Use Palash flower petals to create a beautiful saffron hue.

3. Magenta: Soak beetroot in water to get a bright magenta color.

4. Other Options: Henna powder, Gulmohar, and Hibiscus flowers can be used to create various colors.