Concerns rise over synthetic colours as Holi nears | Bhubaneswar News
Bhubaneswar: As Holi approaches, concerns are mounting over the widespread use of synthetic colours containing harmful chemicals in the capital city. While local markets are bustling with colourful Holi merchandise, health experts warn that many artificial colours contain toxic substances such as heavy metals, acids, and industrial dyes that can cause severe skin allergies, respiratory problems, and eye infections.
“Many synthetic colours contain lead oxide, mercury sulphite, and copper sulphate, which can cause serious health issues. We typically see a surge in skin-related complaints immediately after Holi celebrations. Application of synthetic colours leads to stains, allergies, and damage to the eyes and hair,” said Dr Jayant Kumar Dash, plastic and cosmetic surgeon. He advised revellers to apply oil and sunscreen before playing with colours and to stay hydrated.
To combat these health risks, several NGOs and environmental groups are conducting awareness campaigns across the city. They are demonstrating how to make eco-friendly colours at home and highlighting the dangers of synthetic alternatives.
“People often do not realise the harm synthetic colours cause, not just to our skin but to our river and soil. Through workshops, we aim to revive traditional methods of colour-making, ensuring that Holi remains a festival of joy and not pollution,” said Sweta Agrawal, founder of Unmukt Foundation. The foundation has organised herbal colour-making workshops in schools, raising awareness among over 1,000 students.
Beyond NGOs, several housing societies and community groups are also making the switch to herbal colours. “Like every year, we are preparing herbal colours for Holi using turmeric, henna, different types of mud and clay, leaves, and vegetables like orange peel and beetroot. All 64 households in our society are using herbal colours in 30 different shades,” said Priyadarshini Das, an entrepreneur.
“Many synthetic colours contain lead oxide, mercury sulphite, and copper sulphate, which can cause serious health issues. We typically see a surge in skin-related complaints immediately after Holi celebrations. Application of synthetic colours leads to stains, allergies, and damage to the eyes and hair,” said Dr Jayant Kumar Dash, plastic and cosmetic surgeon. He advised revellers to apply oil and sunscreen before playing with colours and to stay hydrated.
To combat these health risks, several NGOs and environmental groups are conducting awareness campaigns across the city. They are demonstrating how to make eco-friendly colours at home and highlighting the dangers of synthetic alternatives.
“People often do not realise the harm synthetic colours cause, not just to our skin but to our river and soil. Through workshops, we aim to revive traditional methods of colour-making, ensuring that Holi remains a festival of joy and not pollution,” said Sweta Agrawal, founder of Unmukt Foundation. The foundation has organised herbal colour-making workshops in schools, raising awareness among over 1,000 students.
Beyond NGOs, several housing societies and community groups are also making the switch to herbal colours. “Like every year, we are preparing herbal colours for Holi using turmeric, henna, different types of mud and clay, leaves, and vegetables like orange peel and beetroot. All 64 households in our society are using herbal colours in 30 different shades,” said Priyadarshini Das, an entrepreneur.
