How do people prepare for Holi celebrations?

Preparing for Holi involves a mix of practical, spiritual, and culinary preparations. Here’s a detailed look at how people typically prepare for this vibrant festival:

1. Gathering Materials

The first step is to gather all the necessary materials for the celebration. This includes purchasing organic and skin-friendly colors. Some people also choose to make their own colors at home¹. Water guns and balloons are often bought for a more fun-filled experience.

2. Choosing Outfits

People often choose to wear light-colored or white clothes on Holi. These colors show off the Holi colors well, allowing individuals to flaunt their colorful selves after the celebration¹.

3. Safety Measures

Safety measures for skin and hair are crucial. People often apply oil to their skin and hair before playing with colors to prevent them from sticking and causing damage.

4. Preparing the Holika Bonfire

On the eve of Holi, a bonfire is prepared. This involves collecting and stacking wood in an open space away from trees. A combustible statue of Holika is placed on the wood, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

5. Preparing Food

Food is an integral part of Holi celebrations. Traditional delicacies like gujiya, shakkarpaare, matri, and dahi-bada are prepared. Some preparations can be done a day prior to make things easier and time-saving.

6. Cleaning the Home

Cleaning the home before the festivities is also a common practice. This is done to welcome the positive vibes that the festival brings.

Remember, every region might have its own unique traditions and ways of celebrating Holi. The above steps provide a general overview of the preparations typically involved in celebrating Holi.