India gears up for Holi 2026 with a fresh twist in Bhagalpur, where women are pioneering chemical-free colors derived from beets, spinach, and fragrant blooms. This herbal gulal doubles as an aromatherapy treat, offering mental tranquility amid the revelry.
In bustling home workshops and community centers, hundreds of women meticulously create batches using rose, lavender, chandan, and kevda. The powders are not only visually stunning but also skin-safe and ingestible—ideal for turning into halwa for a festive snack.
Leading the charge is Ma Anandi founder Priya Soni, who emphasizes the ‘waste to wealth’ approach. Discarded temple flowers find new life as premium gulal, reducing waste and promoting green practices. ‘No infections, no stress—just pure joy,’ she assures.
The surge in demand reflects a growing shift toward sustainable festivities. This gulal soothes the senses, alleviates tension, and safeguards delicate skin, making it a hit for all ages. It’s more than a product; it’s a symbol of female entrepreneurship in rural areas.
As Holi nears, this initiative inspires nationwide change, merging tradition with innovation for a healthier planet and empowered communities.