Bhubaneswar: Holi celebrations in the Capital this year are set to go beyond the usual splash of vibrant colours and joyous gatherings, with a renewed focus on responsibility and sustainability.
Across the City — from residential colonies to community grounds — preparations are in full swing for a grand yet eco-friendly Holi.
Markets are witnessing brisk business as buyers look for safe, herbal colours, traditional sweets and other festive essentials.
What makes Holi 2026 distinct, however, is a visible shift towards natural, skin-friendly colours and locally produced goods, reflecting growing awareness about health, environment and support for indigenous products.
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A major highlight of this year’s festivities is ‘Rangotsav-2026’, organised by the Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) at the SIRD Campus in Unit-VIII.
The fair seeks to promote safe and eco-friendly Holi celebrations while generating sustainable market opportunities for women self-help groups (SHGs).
Visitors to Rangotsav are not only purchasing herbal gulal and other natural products but also extending direct support to hundreds of rural women entrepreneurs from across Odisha.
“Rangotsav is a beautiful blend of safe colours and women’s empowerment.
By using natural colours prepared by SHG women, we can protect the environment while supporting the rural economy,” Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik said, urging citizens to choose local and eco-friendly products.
ORMAS CEO Monica Priyadarshini highlighted that the initiative reflects the talent and hard work of rural women. She stated that ORMAS is committed to connecting them with modern markets through improved packaging, branding, and direct urban outreach.
One of the key attractions at Rangotsav is chemical-free herbal gulal prepared by SHG women with support from RIPC in Ganjam district. Made from natural ingredients such as turmeric, beetroot, and flowers, these colours are safe for both skin and the environment.
The Rangotsav fair will continue till March 4, providing residents an opportunity to celebrate Holi in a safe, meaningful and socially responsible manner.
City residents have shown increasing preference for organic alternatives, gradually moving away from synthetic colours that often cause skin allergies and pose risks to the environment. Holi in Bhubaneswar is also a celebration of community bonding.
Cultural programmes, music events and housing society gatherings are being organised across the city, adding vibrancy to the festivities.
Traditional Odia sweets and snacks are enhancing the festive spirit, while local artisans are witnessing a surge in demand for handcrafted home décor and gift items.
