Let’s embrace each other with the ‘Gulal’ of love!
Each year, Holi, the Festival of Colours, reminds us that when we ignite the traditional Holika, it is not just the wood that we should burn, but it is a call from the Almighty Lord to annihilate the evil in us. The festival urges us to get rid of our negative traits like hatred, deceit, dishonesty and discrimination and embrace each other with the ‘Gulal’ of love, brotherhood, and nobility.
Though Holi is significant during every generation, the importance of Holi today is more paramount taking into consideration the growing intolerance in India. Further, with the Lok Sabha elections round the corner, the political leaders would surely try to create differences between communities for their selfish goals. However, the India of today is educated and, unlike the 70’s and ’90s, these political parties cannot divide the nation on the basis of religion. It is here the festival of Holi holds substance because just as the colours of Holi are diverse, likewise India is a country of diversity but we live in harmony akin to the colours of Holi. Just as the colours of Holi cannot be separated, likewise we Indians, too, cannot be separated. So, let’s pledge to love and accept each other as citizens of one country. Let us destroy hatred and live in peace and harmony like true brothers.
Secondly, during Holi, it is observed that many pet owners think using dry colours on their pet has no effect on their body, but the truth is contrary. The toxic lead present in dry colours is quite dangerous to the lives of the pets. In addition, some pets develop nasal irritation and possibly respiratory allergy or infection by inhalation of the coloured powder. Also, pets like dogs do not like colours as it irritates them if it goes into their eyes or nose. Dry colours can also lead to rashes, hence while playing Holi keep your pets at a safe distance. Besides, it must be remembered that even the strays and other mute animals should not be pestered for our joy during Holi.
And, last but not the least, kindly celebrate Holi using natural colours and say a stern ‘No’ to synthetic colours because these colours do not get removed easily and instead of giving joy they become scars for a lifetime.
Also, these days the market is flooded with Pichkari (syringe) with huge bags to put on backs to accommodate water. Kindly avoid such a huge load on the tender backs of your little kids. Also, guide your kids not to pester strangers with water balloons. In short, play Holi with love and affection.
Home Times wishes Happy Holi to all its readers.
