Dr. Satyavan Saurabh
Holi isn’t just a festival, it’s a celebration of the collective consciousness of Indian society. It’s a time of color, joy, an occasion to untangle the knots of the heart and shake off the dust from relationships. But with time, every tradition faces new questions. Today, as the format of Holi celebrations in universities and public spaces is changing, one segment of society is excited, while another is concerned. This conflict makes this discussion serious.
Traditionally, Holi has been celebrated within the family and community sphere. Village squares, neighborhood courtyards, and rooftops—all served as natural platforms for celebration. Relationships were clearly defined; the banter between brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, the banter between sisters-in-law, and the colors and abir of friends—all carried a cultural and social context. The joy of the festival was collective, but the boundaries were also clear.
Today, the scene has changed. In co-educational universities, students study together, organize events together, and celebrate together. In the age of social media, the celebration is no longer a private experience; it has become a public display. Colors, music, dance, and crowds—all of these create an atmosphere that is different from the traditional Holi. This change is making a section of society uncomfortable.
The main question isn’t why girls are playing Holi or why boys are accompanying them. The real question is: are decorum and dignity preserved under the guise of celebration? Is anarchy gaining ground in the name of freedom? Are personal boundaries being broken in the excitement of the crowd?
The distinction between “girl” and “woman” also comes into discussion here. Society often teaches daughters the importance of decorum from childhood, while sons are given more freedom. When daughters participate in public celebrations, it is considered a departure from tradition. But is this viewpoint justified? If equal opportunities are accepted in education and public life, why not equal participation in cultural events?
On the other hand, it’s equally true that mob behavior isn’t always restrained. Incidents like molestation, forced coloring, and lewd comments on Holi have been a concern for society for years. Therefore, parents’ concerns cannot be completely dismissed. Their concern isn’t just about preserving tradition, but also about the safety and dignity of their daughters.
The concept of “consent” becomes crucial here. Clear consent is the foundation of any social interaction in modern society. If a student voluntarily participates in a celebration in a safe environment, they cannot be faulted simply because they deviate from the traditional framework. However, if the event lacks security, oversight, and a clear code of conduct, concerns are natural.
The role of the university administration becomes crucial here. Security arrangements, complaint mechanisms, and clear guidelines should be mandatory for any mass event. It is the administration’s responsibility to ensure that no student feels uncomfortable. A clear “no means no” policy and strict adherence to it can keep the celebration healthy.
Society also needs to introspect. Do we only see daughters as a matter of domestic dignity? Do we assume that their active participation in public spaces is inherently inappropriate? If daughters are advancing in education, sports, politics, and business, why should their presence at cultural events be judged on a different yardstick?
Tradition is not static; it changes with time. What seems “new” today may become the norm tomorrow. But change does not mean abandoning values. Dignity, respect, and safety—these values are eternal. The question is: are we ready to apply these values to the new environment?
The core message of Holi is to erase social distinctions. It’s a day when colors unite everyone—caste, class, age, and gender are left behind. If we embrace this core sentiment, we must also recognize that daughters and sons are equally a part of this celebration.
Still, turning celebrations into performances is a cause for concern. In the race for likes and views on social media, public displays of private moments often cross the line of decency. Young people need to understand that there’s a difference between confidence and self-expression. Happiness doesn’t mean living every moment for the camera.
The role of parents is equally important. Mere restraint isn’t the solution. Communication, trust, and awareness are more effective tools. If daughters are instilled with self-respect, self-defense, and clear boundaries from a young age, they can protect their dignity in any environment. Similarly, sons should be taught that the joy of a celebration cannot be based on the discomfort of others.
Society must accept that the new generation lives in a different social structure. Co-education, digital media, and global influences have broadened their experiences. Therefore, it is no longer possible to apply old definitions as they are. However, it is equally important that the new generation remains connected to the roots of tradition.
Balance is the solution. Neither blind imitation nor blind opposition. If Holi celebrations are held in universities, they should be safe, dignified, and voluntary. If a student does not want to participate, they should not be pressured. If someone wishes to participate, their freedom should be respected.
Ultimately, the question isn’t just about Holi, but about the mindset of society. Will we view freedom with suspicion, or embrace it with responsibility? Will we treat daughters as mere objects of protection, or will we see them as capable and conscious citizens?
The colors of Holi will only last if they are imbued with the fragrance of trust and respect. The conflict between tradition and modernity will end when we understand that both aim to improve society.
Festivals aren’t just about observing rituals, but also about testing ourselves over time. If we celebrate with dignity, respect, and consensus at the core, neither tradition nor modernity will be hurt.
Society’s progress lies in nurturing its roots while allowing new branches to spread. This festival of colors teaches us that harmony is possible even in diversity—just a balanced perspective is needed.
