HOLI KE RANG

Eye injuries are a common hazard during Holi, and like other injuries during this festival, is on the rise. Water-filled balloons directly hitting the eye cause the majority of them. Abraisions due to sand or mica that are present in “abir” or “gulal” getting into the eye, or to splashing of toxic colours is another cause; they can lead to grittiness, pain, temporay loss of vision, and occasionally, even permanent blindness.

The other common health hazard during this festival is to the skin and hair. A fact sheet published by a Delhi based organization, Toxics Link, revealed alarming facts about the colours used for playing Holi.

They contain toxic chemicals such as the black coloured lead oxide which can result in kidney failure, the silver paint coloured aluminium bromide and the red coloured mercury sulphate that are carcinogenic, the blue coloured prussian blue and the green coloured copper sulphate that cause contact dermatitis, eye allergy and puffiness. Unsafe Holi players use gutter water, grease, tar and engine oil that aggravate the health hazards further. Strong colours such as gentian violet penetartes deep into the skin, and are difficult to wash away with soap and water; skin abrasions, dermatitis and skin discolorations often follow.

Herbal colours, on the other hand are much safer though slightly more expensive. They are made from petals of flowers like rose, hibiscus or marigold and from other natural sources such as turmeric, henna and spinach. They are not only non-toxic, but smell good, and add the “pleasant and healthy” colourful factor that Holi is thought to have had in epic times.

The following tips could help you enjoy Holi better:

1.Make sure your face is well creamed before you start playing Holi.

2.If you expect to be out in the sun for long, apply a sunscreen on the exposed parts of your body.

3.Apply oil (coconut, olive, or mustard) liberally on your scalp and body, so that colour does not stick and can be washed off easily. Apply Vaseline liberally on the nails.

4.Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses; preferrably plastic ones can be helpful. Make sure you tightly shut your eyes and mouth when friends apply colour to your face.

5.Wear full-sleeved shirts and full pants.

6.Use natural or herbal colours. You could be the trendsetter and offer some to those who come to apply colours on you.

7.Be careful with intoxicants (bhang, alcohol) as they increase the risk of getting hurt or injured.
8.While washing, use glycerine based soap and don’t rub too vigorously to get rid of the colors from your scalp and skin. They cause damage and abrasions. If the stains are deep, give them a day or two to come off. Apply a moisturiser immediately after bath on damp skin.

9.Dont play with rowdy strangers, who might be intoxicated.

Remember that Holi is a festival to be enjoyed with family and friends, and playing it gracefully and safely need not detract from the fun and enjoyment. Holi Hai!!!

Published in HT City, Hindustan Times (Lucknow) dated: 1st March,2010