Politics / India
Herbal Gulal Production for Holi
Tribal women in Mandla District of Madhya Pradesh are producing herbal gulal, a safer alternative to harmful chemical-laced color powders for Holi. This initiative utilizes natural ingredients such as beetroot, marigold, hibiscus, turmeric, and spinach, promoting eco-friendly celebrations.
Source material: Holi 2026: Madhya Pradesh tribal women make herbal gulal for safer, eco-friendly Holi
Summary
Tribal women in Mandla District of Madhya Pradesh are producing herbal gulal, a safer alternative to harmful chemical-laced color powders for Holi. This initiative utilizes natural ingredients such as beetroot, marigold, hibiscus, turmeric, and spinach, promoting eco-friendly celebrations.
Around 200 women are engaged in the production of five to six quintals of herbal gulal this season, with a sales target of nearly Rs 1.5–2 lakh. The initiative not only offers a healthier alternative to synthetic colors but also strengthens livelihoods and empowers women in the region.
The reliance on local ingredients for herbal gulal production supports sustainability and cost-effectiveness. However, consistent availability and affordability of these ingredients may pose challenges, potentially impacting the initiative's success.
Perspectives
short
Supporters of Herbal Gulal
- Promote safer alternatives to harmful chemical colors
- Utilize natural, locally available ingredients for production
- Empower women and strengthen local livelihoods
- Set achievable sales targets for sustainable income
Critics of Herbal Gulal Initiative
- Question the consistent availability of local ingredients
- Highlight potential economic challenges affecting sustainability
- Concern over the scalability of the initiative
Neutral / Shared
- Acknowledge the cultural significance of Holi celebrations
- Recognize the grassroots nature of the initiative
Metrics
production
5 to 6 quintals
amount of herbal gulal produced this season
This production level indicates significant community engagement and capacity.
around 200 women worked to make 5 to 6 quintals of herbal gulal this season
sales_target
about 2 lacropies INR
target sales for the herbal gulal
Achieving this sales target could enhance the economic stability of the involved women.
setting a sales target of about 2 lacropies
Key entities
Timeline highlights
00:00–05:00
Tribal women in Mandla District are producing herbal gulal as a safer alternative to harmful chemical-laced color powders for Holi. This initiative not only promotes eco-friendly celebrations but also empowers local women and strengthens their livelihoods.
- Holi, the Spring Festival, often involves harmful chemical-laced color powders. However, tribal women in Mandla District are providing a safer alternative with herbal gulal
- These women utilize natural ingredients like beetroot, marigold, hibiscus, turmeric, and spinach. They create eco-friendly colors that are gentle on the skin
- The production of herbal gulal is sustainable and cost-effective. The ingredients are locally available and affordable for the community
- Around 200 women from self-help groups are engaged in producing five to six quintals of herbal gulal this season. They aim for sales of about Rs 2 lakh
- The initiative promotes a healthier option for Holi celebrations. It also contributes to womens empowerment and strengthens local livelihoods
- As Holi approaches, this grassroots effort in Madhya Pradesh showcases the potential for tradition and sustainability to coexist harmoniously