01/7Make organic Holi colours using these popular vegetables
Celebrating the arrival of the spring season in India, and the triumph of good over evil, Holi is one such festival where it’s a time for joyous gatherings, playful colour fights, and delicious homemade sweets & snacks like Gujiya, Malpua, Gol Gappa, Dahi Bhalle, Pakode, and Thandai etc. As we celebrate the festival of Holi, the tradition of using vibrant colours adds joy and excitement to the festivities. However, commercial dyes often contain harmful chemicals that can pose risks to health and the environment. Using organic colours for Holi is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, they are safe for both the environment and human health, free from harmful chemicals that may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Secondly, organic colours promote sustainability by utilising natural sources like vegetables and plant extracts, reducing the environmental impact of synthetic dyes. Most importantly, celebrating Holi with organic colours aligns with the spirit of the festival, promoting harmony with nature and fostering a sense of responsibility towards our planet. Fortunately, nature offers a plethora of colourful options that can be used to create organic dyes right in the comfort of your home. Here is a list of 5 popular vegetables that can be used to prepare homemade organic colours that will provide your skin a chance to breathe this Holi.
(Images courtesy: Canva)
02/7Beetroot
Beetroot is not only a nutritious vegetable but also a natural source of vibrant red dye. Simply chop beetroot into small pieces and boil them in water until the colour is extracted. Strain the liquid and mix with some white flour to make powdered Holi colour. Or you can also use this liquid as a natura face paint.
03/7Spinach
Spinach, with its deep green hue, can be transformed into a natural colourperfect for creating shades of green. All you need to do it is boil some spinach leaves in water and add a little baking soda to it, then strain the liquid to extract the green pigment. Afterwards, mix flour in this liquid to make powdered Holi colour and enjoy.
04/7Red Cabbage
Red cabbage contains pigments called anthocyanins, which can be extracted to create natural blue and purple colour. Simply chop red cabbage and boil it in water until the colour is released. Depending on the pH of the liquid, you can achieve shades ranging from blue to purple. Experiment with adding acidic or alkaline ingredients like lemon juice or baking soda to create different colours and tones.
05/7Carrot
Carrots, with their vibrant orange hue, can be used to create natural dyes that evoke warmth and cheerfulness. Boil chopped carrots in water until the colour is extracted, then strain the liquid to obtain an orange dye. You can mix it with flour to prepare the powdered Holi colour.
06/7Onion
Available in a variety of colours ranging from white to red, onions can be used to create natural dyes with subtle earthy tones. Boil onion skins in water to extract the colour, then use the liquid to mix with plain flour to obtain your favourite colour. You can also experiment with combining different coloured onion skins to create unique shades and hues.
07/7What’s your take?
Creating organic colours at home using vegetables not only adds a personal touch to your crafts and celebrations but also promotes sustainability and environmental responsibility. So, the next time you’re looking to add a splash of colour to your festivities, look no further than your kitchen pantry for these versatile and eco-friendly colour options.