From gulal to green ideas, city’s Holi has it all

Vadodara: With Holi and Dhuleti just around the corner, markets across Vadodara are awash with colour and crowds, as residents flock to shops to stock up on festive essentials.From vibrant gulal and trendy pichkaris to traditional snacks such as dhani (popped sorghum/jowar) and khajur (dates), the festive spirit has gripped the city. Major market areas, including Mandvi, Raopura, Nyay Mandir and other old city pockets, witnessed heavy footfall over the weekend, particularly on Sunday, with families making last-minute purchases of colours, water guns and decorative items for Holika Dahan.Shopkeepers said sales picked up significantly on the eve of Holi. Stalls selling eco-friendly colours made from natural ingredients such as turmeric, beetroot and flower extracts are drawing steady buyers.Meanwhile, a city school has planned eco-friendly Holi celebrations this year, with students and teachers arranging nearly 500 kg of flowers and opting for organic dry colours.Adding a unique touch, an ayurvedic Holika Dahan will also be organized. The bonfire will include around 40 ayurvedic ingredients such as camphor, nagarmotha and jatamansi, which organisers believe help purify the atmosphere, blending traditional rituals with environmental consciousness