As the vibrant festival of colors, Holi, approaches, it brings with it a mixed bag of emotions for many, especially women. This year, Holi coincides with International Women’s Day on the 8th of March, creating a poignant irony that cannot be ignored. What was once a cherished childhood memory for me has now transformed into a festival I dread, a stark reminder of the challenges women face in our society.

Growing up, Holi was a time of sheer joy and excitement. The colors, the mouth-watering delicacies prepared by my grandmother, and the cheerful gatherings filled with laughter are etched in my memory. However, as I entered my early 20s, my perspective on Holi shifted dramatically. The festival, once a source of joy, now evokes fear and discomfort.

One incident stands out vividly in my mind, highlighting the dark side of Holi celebrations. At 16, a man ignored my discomfort and boundaries, insisting on smearing colors on my face despite my clear refusal. The phrase "Bura na Mano Holi Hai" was used to trivialize my consent, a moment that still haunts me and reflects a broader societal issue.

In many communities, Holi is marred by incidents of harassment and assault against women. The festival becomes a nightmare as drunk men roam the streets, making it unsafe for women to venture out of their homes. The excuse of "celebrating Holi" is often used to justify inappropriate behavior, brushing aside the real harm caused to women.

The irony of celebrating International Women’s Day and Holi on the same day is not lost on me. While Women’s Day symbolizes empowerment and inclusivity, Holi often highlights the deep-rooted misogyny and lack of respect for women’s autonomy. The contrast is stark and unsettling.

Moreover, traditional practices during Holi exclude certain groups of women, such as widows, reinforcing regressive patriarchal norms. The refusal to acknowledge these exclusions under the guise of tradition is both infuriating and disappointing in a supposedly progressive society.

For women, Holi is not just about colors and festivities; it’s about navigating a space filled with potential dangers and violations of their dignity. Every year, news headlines recount incidents of gender-based violence during Holi, further perpetuating the festival's negative association for many women.

It’s disheartening that Holi, a festival meant to spread joy and camaraderie, has become synonymous with fear and harassment for countless women. The phrase "Bura na Mano Holi Hai" has morphed into a justification for unacceptable behavior, denying women the right to celebrate freely and without fear.

As we celebrate Women’s Day and Holi this year, let’s reflect on how we can make festivals safe and inclusive for everyone. It’s time to challenge harmful traditions, promote consent and respect, and create spaces where women can celebrate without apprehension. Only then can Holi truly become a festival of happiness and harmony for all.