Holi, the festival of colors, was celebrated across India with great enthusiasm and joy on Friday. People smeared each other with gulal and exchanged warm wishes, marking the arrival of spring with vibrant festivities.

In several major cities, public transportation, including metro services, remained suspended in the morning and resumed in the afternoon. This year, Holi coincided with the second Friday prayer of Ramadan, leading to heightened security measures in various states to ensure a peaceful atmosphere.

As per agency report, in Delhi, more than 25,000 security personnel were deployed to maintain law and order. Officials stated that around 300 sensitive areas were monitored through CCTV cameras and drones. Similar security arrangements were seen in other parts of the country.

In Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal district, Holi was celebrated with traditional fervor, and the customary ‘Chaupai Ka Juloos’ procession took place. Given past communal tensions, stringent security measures were enforced, and the city was divided into 29 surveillance sectors for drone monitoring. The police and district administration had made three-tier security arrangements to ensure peaceful celebrations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his Holi greetings on Thursday, expressing hope that the festival would strengthen the unity among Indians. President Droupadi Murmu also conveyed her wishes, highlighting the cultural significance of the festival. Various political leaders across the country shared their Holi greetings, emphasizing harmony and togetherness.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, addressing a traditional Narasimha procession in Gorakhpur, underscored the unparalleled richness of festivals in Sanatan Dharma. He stated that India progresses through its festivals, which serve as the soul of faith. Stressing unity, he remarked that Holi conveys the message that "India will remain united and indivisible."

Referring to the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, he noted how 660 million devotees gathered at the confluence of the holy rivers for the grand event, illustrating the spiritual and cultural strength of the nation. In his address and later on social media, he described Holi as a festival of equality, inclusivity, and the victory of truth over falsehood.

In West Bengal, people celebrated the festival as Dol Jatra, marked by joyous processions and cultural performances. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee prayed for stronger bonds among citizens and quoted Rabindranath Tagore to emphasize harmony. Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari and other BJP leaders also extended their greetings.

In Goa, both locals and tourists, including foreign visitors, participated in Holi festivities with great enthusiasm. Panaji’s Azad Maidan was a focal point of the celebrations, with saffron-colored decorations dominating the scene.

Assam’s Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma extended Holi and Dol Utsav wishes to the people. Sarma expressed hope that the festival would bring prosperity and joy to everyone’s lives.

In Punjab and Haryana, Holi celebrations took place with enthusiasm, with large gatherings at Anandpur Sahib for the annual Hola Mohalla festival. Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya, and Chief Ministers Bhagwant Mann and Nayab Singh Saini conveyed their greetings.

In Telangana, cities like Hyderabad witnessed widespread celebrations, particularly among youth and children. North Indian communities observed Holika Dahan on Thursday night, following traditional rituals. Special cultural performances, including the Rajasthani Gair dance, added vibrancy to the festivities.

However, Hyderabad police imposed certain restrictions to prevent rowdy behavior, such as banning group vehicle rallies and unauthorized color-throwing. BJP MLA Raja Singh criticized these restrictions, calling them unnecessary.

Andhra Pradesh’s Governor S. Abdul Nazir and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, along with former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, extended their Holi wishes to the people.

Meanwhile, in Jammu and Kashmir, PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti alleged that certain extremist elements had turned Holi into an unsettling occasion for minorities, blaming the tacit support of those in power.

The festival also found its way into pop culture, with the release of a special edition of the iconic comic series The World of Betty and Veronica Digest #38. The new 10-page storyline features Archie and his friends learning about Holi. Nancy Silberkleit, co-CEO of Archie Comics Publications, stated that the inclusion of Holi in the comic was inspired by the beauty and cultural richness of India.

With nationwide celebrations taking place amid heightened security, Holi 2025 was marked by joy, unity, and traditional fervor.

Gorakhpur, March 14 – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the deep-rooted significance of festivals in Sanatan Dharma, stating that no other religion or culture in the world has such a rich tradition of celebrations. Addressing the traditional Narsingh Shobha Yatra in Gorakhpur, he remarked that India moves forward through its festivals, as they serve as the soul of faith and unity.

As per agency report, Adityanath highlighted that the core message of Holi is national unity, ensuring the strength and integrity of the country. He asserted that the vision of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ (One India, Great India) is realized through such celebrations.

The Chief Minister also pointed out how the Prayagraj Mahakumbh demonstrated the power and devotion of Sanatan Dharma, with over 66 crore devotees gathering at the holy site for a grand ritual bath. He stressed that the event transcended caste and regional boundaries, reaffirming the inclusive spirit of India’s religious and cultural traditions.

Before the Shobha Yatra, Yogi Adityanath was seen celebrating Holi with sadhus and saints, sitting among them and actively participating in the festivities. During the procession, he also showered flowers on the participants, marking the joyous spirit of the festival.

New York, March 14 – The latest edition of the popular Archie Comics features a special storyline about Holi, bringing the vibrant Indian festival to the world of Archie and his friends. The ten-page comic, titled The World of Betty and Veronica Digest #38, was released on Thursday, coinciding with Holi celebrations in India and across the globe.

As per agency report, Nancy Silberkleit, co-CEO of Archie Comic Publications, expressed her excitement about incorporating Holi into the storyline. She shared that her inspiration came from her personal experiences in India, where she witnessed the beauty of the festival firsthand. The comic follows Archie, Betty, and Veronica as they learn about Holi, its traditions, and the festive delicacies associated with it.

A significant motivation behind this project was to honor Om Arora, the owner of Variety Book Depot in Delhi, who played a key role in bringing Archie Comics to India. Silberkleit acknowledged Arora’s longstanding contribution, stating that his publishing house had distributed Archie Comics across India for decades, making it feel like they were part of one family.

Silberkleit fondly recalled her Holi celebrations in India and the artistic vibrancy she encountered. She mentioned traveling to cities like New Delhi, Pune, and Jaipur for business but emphasized her eagerness to explore more, particularly Goa and Ooty, which she has heard a lot about.

She expressed her deep connection with India, saying that she feels at home in both the United States and India. The relationships she built during her travels inspired the storyline in Celebration Surprise, the special Holi-themed story in this edition of Archie Comics.

Gandhinagar, March 12 – The Gujarat Assembly members celebrated the festival of Holi with enthusiasm and grandeur, led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Speaker Shankarbhai Chaudhary. The colorful festivities took place on Wednesday after the conclusion of the assembly session, as ministers, legislators, and other attendees gathered in the lush green courtyard in front of the assembly complex.

As per media report, the celebration began with CM Bhupendra Patel, Speaker Shankarbhai Chaudhary, and other ministers and legislators walking from the assembly to the venue, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of the traditional Gheraiya dance performed by tribal artists. The vibrant atmosphere was further enhanced by melodious Holi songs and energetic folk dances, as leaders and attendees joyfully played with colors and celebrated the spirit of Holi together.

The courtyard was adorned with colorful flowers, decorative rangoli, and traditional seating arrangements like charpoys, adding to the festive charm. The ministers and legislators also performed Garba to the tunes of Holi songs, creating an environment filled with joy, unity, and cultural harmony.

Following the celebrations, CM Bhupendra Patel, Speaker Shankarbhai Chaudhary, and other assembly members enjoyed a communal feast, strengthening the spirit of togetherness. Notably, the tradition of celebrating Holi collectively in the Gujarat Assembly was initiated last year by Speaker Shankarbhai Chaudhary, and it has since become a cherished annual event.

New Delhi [India], February 21:Holi—the festival of colors, joy, and endless fun—is right around the corner! It’s that time of the year when we drench our loved ones in vibrant hues, dance to energetic beats, and, of course, exchange thoughtful gifts. Whether you're looking for something traditional or a unique surprise, we’ve got you covered.

If you’re wondering what to gift your family and friends this year, check out this handpicked list of the top 9 Holi gifts for 2025 that will surely bring smiles and colors to their celebrations!

1. Holi-Themed Cake: A Delicious Twist to the Festivities

What’s a celebration without something sweet? A Holi theme cake is a fun and tasty way to add a modern touch to this traditional festival. Imagine a cake decorated with colorful splashes, festive designs, or even a Thandai-flavored treat! Whether it’s for a family gathering or a Holi party, this delightful dessert is sure to be a crowd favorite.

2. Herbal Gulal: Celebrate with Safe and Skin-Friendly Colors

Holi is all about playing with colors, but why not make it safe and eco-friendly? This year, skip the harsh chemicals and opt for herbal gulal made from natural ingredients like turmeric, rose petals, and sandalwood. These colors are not only gentle on the skin but also safe for kids and pets. Plus, they make for a thoughtful and responsible gift!

3. Personalized Holi Hampers: A Box of Festive Joy

Gifting gets extra special when it’s personalized! A customized Holi hamper filled with dry fruits, organic colors, sweets, and even a bottle of Thandai is a fantastic way to make your loved ones feel special. You can even add a personal touch with a heartfelt note or a family photo. It’s a gift that’s both thoughtful and festive!

4. Thandai Gift Set: A Taste of Tradition

No Holi celebration is complete without a chilled glass of Thandai. Why not gift your friends and family a Thandai gift set that includes the traditional drink mix along with dry fruits, saffron, and spices? This delicious and refreshing beverage is a festival staple and a perfect way to bring in the Holi spirit.

5. Sweets and Snacks Basket: Because Festivities Mean Feasting

Food is at the heart of every Indian festival, and Holi is no exception. A beautifully curated basket filled with Gujiyas, Mathris, Namakpare, and Rasgullas is sure to delight your loved ones. You can even find ready-made Holi snack baskets on gifting platforms like FlowerAura.com, making it super easy to send love from afar!

6. Water Balloons &Pichkari Set: Fun for Kids and Adults Alike!

What’s Holi without a splash? A Pichkari and water balloon set is the ultimate gift for kids (and let’s be honest, adults too!). With a variety of colorful water guns, balloon-filling kits, and even glow-in-the-dark options, this gift is guaranteed to bring unlimited joy and playful moments.

7. Handmade Organic Soaps: A Refreshing Post-Holi Treat

After a long day of playing with colors, nothing feels better than a refreshing bath. Handmade organic soaps infused with sandalwood, rose, and aloe vera make for a thoughtful and unique Holi gift. Not only do they help cleanse the skin naturally, but they also leave behind a soothing fragrance—perfect for post-Holi pampering.

8. Indoor Plants: A Green and Meaningful Gift

Why not add a touch of nature to Holi gifting? Indoor plants like money plants, lucky bamboo, or peace lilies make for a thoughtful present that symbolizes positivity and prosperity. Plus, they purify the air—so after all that Holi color fun, your loved ones can breathe fresh and clean air!

9. Holi Special T-Shirts & Accessories: Fun and Trendy Gifts

Customized Holi-themed T-shirts, quirky sunglasses, or even colorful bandanas can add an extra fun element to the celebrations. Imagine your entire group wearing coordinated Holi tees—it’ll not only look amazing in pictures but also create unforgettable memories!

Where to Buy the Best Holi Gifts?

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to buy Holi gifts, there are a lot of online gifting platforms that have a huge variety of gifting options. From personalized hampers to festive cakes and organic colors, these platforms have everything you need to make this festival extra special for your loved ones.

So why wait? Start shopping early and get ready to spread happiness and colors this Holi 2025!

As Holi approaches, seize the opportunity to bring extra joy to your celebrations by gifting your friends and relatives thoughtful presents. Whether you’re attending a Holi party or simply spreading festive cheer, choosing the perfect gifts can truly enhance the occasion. Here are some fun and unique gift ideas to consider:

1. Doodhvale’s Cow Milk – Glass Bottle:

Give a gift that embodies tradition and purity with a glass bottle of fresh cow milk. Not only does it capture the essence of Holi, but it also promotes good health. Your friends and relatives will appreciate this thoughtful gesture, especially in today’s health-conscious times. You can also create a milk product hamper, perfect for making delicious drinks like thandai and more. It’s a delightful way to explore traditional Holi flavors and enjoy the festivities to the fullest!

2. Rosemoore’s Scented Sacks:

Infuse the air with delightful scents like lemongrass, driftwood, and crystal rose with a set of scented sacks. These sachets bring a lovely aroma that can uplift spirits and enhance the joy of Holi celebrations. Placing them in closets, drawers, or cars allows their wonderful fragrance to spread everywhere you go!

3. Saraf Furniture’s Wooden Cute Bird Pair Key Holder with Antique Brass Hooks:

Add a touch of whimsy and functionality to your loved ones’ homes with a charming wooden key holder. This bird pair not only keeps keys organized but also serves as an attractive decoration. The vintage-style brass hooks add a cool touch to any room, whether at home or in the office.

4. Kalayanam Furniture’s Athena Solid Wood Frame Mirror:

Help your friends and relatives elevate their living spaces with a classic and elegant solid wood frame mirror. Whether for grooming or decoration, a quality mirror enhances the aesthetics of any room. The Athena mirror exudes timeless beauty and sophistication, making it a delightful gift choice for Holi.

These gift ideas combine tradition, style, and usefulness to bring joy to your friends and relatives. Whether celebrating with family or coworkers, these thoughtful gifts are sure to leave a lasting impression. Let the joy of Holi strengthen your relationships and fill your hearts with happiness and togetherness.

Always remember, Holi is about spreading love, joy, and goodwill. Whether you choose one of these gifts or something else entirely, what matters most is expressing your love and appreciation to those who matter to you.

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New Delhi, March 9 (IANS) Bharat Matrimony's latest video commercial on the occasion of Holi has sparked debate, with several people accusing the matrimonial website for hurting their religious sentiments.

The video released on March 8, also marked as International Women's Day, shows how harassment faced by women during Holi leads to trauma and stops them from celebrating the festival of colours.

Bharat Matrimony tweeted the 75-second clip video with the caption: "This Women's Day and Holi, let's celebrate by creating safer and more inclusive spaces for women. It's important to acknowledge the challenges that women face in public spaces and create a society that truly respects their well-being - today and forever."

The video shows a woman with her face covered in different colours, who washes her face to get rid of the Holi colours.

Underneath her colourful face are shown bruises. And the captions reads: "Some colours don't wash away easy."

"A third of women who've faced this trauma, have stopped playing Holi."

Twitter users called out against the matrimonial website for hurting religious sentiments, and linking a festival with an important issue.

"You guys are absolutely disgusting. How dare you link a social message with the Hindu festival of Holi," wrote a user.

"It's disappointing to see that you're equating our festivals with harassment. Let's celebrate diversity and respect each other's culture and faith. Let's spread love, not hate," wrote another.

"#BoycottBharatMatrimony Shame on @bharatmatrimony for using a Hindu festival like #Holi to run their social awareness agenda," another user tweeted.

Even as the video soon became viral and triggered a massive outcry, some also came in support of the ad.

"This is indeed very brave of @bharatmatrimony. Festivals cannot and should not be a traumatic experience. Respect and Consent is vital and what better than the #WomensDay to send this message out to all those men who abuse, harm and disrespect women," tweeted one user.

"Some people are very angry on this video. But thanks to @bharatmatrimony for raising this sensitive topic. Illiterate people can neither understand nor want to understand," tweeted another.

A day earlier online food delivery app Swiggy was also called out by netizens over a billboard ad for Instamart.

The billboard features eggs and reads, "Omelette; Sunny side-up; Kisi ke sarr par. #BuraMatKhelo. Get Holi essentials on Instamart."

Jaipur, March 8 (IANS) Around 3,000-3500 foreign and domestic tourists participated in the 'Dhulandi Mahotsav' at Khasa Kothi, a heritage hotel located on the Mirza Ismail Road, here on Wednesday.

Holi widely recognised as Dhulandi Mahotsav in Jaipur and neighboring areas of Rajasthan, and is celebrated on the day after 'Holika Dahan'.

The foreign tourists, who had come from the US, the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Canada, Portugal, Isreal and African counties, enjoyed the festival of colours with folk songs and dance.

After three years, a record number of tourists were present for the festival, which was organised by the tourism department.

According to Upendra Singh Shekhawat, deputy director, tourism department, the purpose of Dhulandi Mahotsav is to let foreign tourists enjoy the colours of Holi with safety.

At the end of the festival, a 'matka' race and 'safa' tying competition was organised for the foreign nationals.

New Delhi (IANS) As the nation gears up to celebrate the festival of colours, ace photographers on Monday said that the next-generation of features in iPhone 14 Pro series can get you breathtaking Holi results with great details.

Gursimran Basra, a famous travel photographer, told IANS that she had a wonderful time shooting Holi festival with iPhone 14 Pro Max.

"The camera features are incredible and I was stoked to see the results myself. The Dynamic Range of the camera enabled it to capture true cinematic shots keeping intact the true depth and details," said Basra.

According to her, iPhone 14 Pro Max's inbuilt Photographic Style feature is a blessing in disguise.

"I customised the pre-built styles acknowledging the Holi conditions and shot at the go yielding beautiful results. There are 4 such styles and one can adjust the tones accordingly," the photographer informed.

Portrait mode of iPhone 14 Pro Max comes with 3x capability.

"It truly enabled me to capture distant detailed shots with ease of not going too close to the subjects. I stood at one place and captured my desired frame by toggling between 1x, 2x and 3x zoom. Happened to capture some beautiful colourful portraits depicting the true vibe of Holi festival," Basra told IANS.

Mumbai-based photographer Apeksha Makar said that the stabilisation and sensor shift on the primary lens helped in capturing the movement between people celebrating.

"If you want to maximise the quality, turn ProRaw on, this not only lets you use the 48MP camera of the iPhone 14 Pro but also gives you full control later on edit to tone your images as per your palette," said Makar.

"Ultra wide adds a unique perspective not just helping you capture the entire scene but also adding quirk in your portrait shots. Go close on this lens and explore macro, and see the finer textures of the colours and food," Makar added.

Use the cinematic mode to create a story between your subjects and capture the fine colours, or explore action mode to get stabilised smooth shots capturing the chaos and bursts of emotions, said the photographer.

"Check for your camera settings before shooting to get the best and highest resolution. Most importantly celebrate the joy and colours, and trust your iPhone to do the magic," said Makar.