It’s that most wonderful time of the year, when the freshness of spring is in the air and Holi just around the corner. So, get ready to be part of the celebration, which is about to explode, and join those who are playing safe by shifting from harsh chemical laden to soft organic colours.
Since most organic colours are made from natural ingredients, they are less likely to cause any skin irritation or allergic reactions and are also easy to wash off, which helps save water. Right away hit the kitchen where you can find the solutions to play a safe and chemical-free Holi. This year, also make most of the scorching heat as you dirty your hands making colours at home.
HERE IS HOW
To make organic colours at home you require mostly plant-based ingredients, informs Swati Naik, from Margao who makes her own Holi colours. “My son gets a rash when he uses the non-organic colours which we would buy. So, instead we make these colours at home in a small quantity. Even if you ingest them, it will not cause any harm as there is no chemical used,” says Swati, who believes that sharing the knowledge on making Holi colours is important.
STEP 1: RAW MATERIAL COLLECTION
Collect raw materials such as flowers and herbs to make the colours. For the colour green use vegetable leaves like spinach and mint. To make yellow use local flowers like marigold petals and turmeric powder. To derive pink or light red hues, add beetroot slices, tambdi bhaji and rose petals.
Since most organic colours are made from natural ingredients, they are less likely to cause any skin irritation or allergic reactions and are also easy to wash off, which helps save water.
STEP 2: COLOUR EXTRACTION
Extract the colour from these materials by either boiling the ingredients or drying them and making a fine powder out of it. This is the right time to make the best of the scorching heat in Goa. Sarita Desai from Ponda loves to use food colouring from reputed brands to make her safe Holi colours.
STEP 3: MIX WITH BASE MATERIAL
To make home-made Holi colours, especially the dried ones, the base plays an important role in creating a smooth powder. Cornstarch is preferred amongst most, however, besan is also used to make the base.
STEP 4: STORAGE
Make sure to store your products in different containers, preferably of the transparent variety. Use glass jars, or even zip-lock bags for this. It will ensure that they are free from contaminants.
WHY USE ORGANIC COLOURS?
Over the last few years, companies and self-help groups have ventured into producing organic colours as these can be used on people as well as pets. Another reason is that the colours are biodegradable and so safer for the environment.
Not only will you ensure the safety of yourself and your pets, but you’ll also help protect the environment, making this festival of colours truly joyous for all. Happy Holi!