A 'Green'Holi

Holi series- Green Oil on canvas "9 x 6" inches         © 2011 Nayna Shriyan

Today, I simply had to go green, not least in keeping with the green revolution taking place even in the way that holi is being played in present times. While traditionally only gulaal was used as the favored colour, along with buckets of water, in recent times, the use of chemical based colours had become quite rampant. Apart from causing harm to the reveler's skin, these are also harmful for the environment.
               As people are becoming more and more aware of these issues, the use of  herbal colours that are eco-friendly has increased. Now colour extracted from flowers, for pinks, reds, oranges and turmeric for yellows are being used.
               There is one more tradition involved with holi that reminds me of the colour green, the army, although this particular army dresses a little differently :) I am talking about the Sikh community of the state of Punjab. During this time, the Sikhs celebrate a festival called "Holla Mohalla." On this day, the Sikhs perform worship rituals for the holy "Guru Granth Sahib" the holy book that is worshiped by them. The evenings are reserved for a show of military strength , by the "Nihang Sikhs", who are a part of the army started by the Guru Gobind Singh. The Nihang Sikhs display their skills by holding mock battles, sword fighting, archery and horse riding exercises.The Nihangs also splash colour on the spectators and then everybody join in. Stories and songs about the life of the ten Sikh " Gurus" are recited. Truly a most exciting way to celebrate holi !