Holi takes on colour of water conservation in Bengaluru

Bengaluru embraces sustainable water conservation practices for an eco-friendly Holi celebration, promoting dry colors and minimal water usage.

After last summer’s water woes, which forced the authorities to announce a slew of water conservation measures, this Holi has taken on the colour of water conservation in Bengaluru. Residents, event organisers, and local businesses are embracing sustainable practices to ensure a joyful yet responsible Holi.

This year Holi falls on March 14, Friday.

In the previous year, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) had prohibited the use of potable water for pool parties and rain dances during Holi. While there are no specific guidelines for celebrations this year, V. Ram Prasath Manohar, chairman of BWSSB, said, “Even this year, we are making the same appeal to the people to judiciously use water, making it an eco-friendly holi and pledging to safeguard the environment.”

Due to BWSSB’s standing order against misuse of potable water, the celebration of Holi has taken different turns across the city. Event organisers and party planners have introduced innovative measures to minimise water usage.

Charan M.N., Director of Navavarn Events, based in Kasturi Nagar, explained how they have made changes and restructured their Holi events to comply with the water ban. “In response to the BWSSB’s restrictions, we have revised our event format significantly. Our approach now involves using water very minimally - only in the form of a ‘mist rain dance’ setup to create a refreshing ambiance without violating the ban.”

He added, “We are promoting a dry Holi this year, focusing on eco-friendly celebrations. We are using dry colours made from recycled flowers collected from temples and convention centers, aligning with our commitment to sustainability.”

Chetan M.S.R, owner of MSR events and the manager of Rang De Holi 2025 event, said, “We are using sprinklers this time to judiciously use water as they save around 70% water. We are also using only organic colours for the celebrations.”