With the festival of Holi just around the corner, traders across Navi Mumbai and the neighbouring suburban areas are bustling with activity. This year, the festival of colours will be celebrated on March 14.

Market areas are alive with excitement, with children eager to purchase their favourite pichkaris, colours, and water balloons. Even before the commencement of festivities, kids were seen engaging in water balloon fights and drenching each other with water with their water guns.

Despite a 20 per cent increase in prices this year, traders at the APMC market reported a growing preference for natural colours over chemical-based alternatives. “The natural colours in powder form are priced between Rs 50 to Rs 200, while wet colours that can be mixed with water range between Rs 40 and Rs 150,” shared a trader from APMC. This shift towards eco-friendly options reflects a broader awareness of health and environmental concerns among consumers.

Pichkaris or water guns, a favourite with children, are available in various sizes and shapes, with prices ranging between Rs 30 and Rs 1,500. “The excitement in the air is not just about the colours and water guns; it’s about the joy of coming together with family and friends to celebrate this cherished festival”, says Vipul Patel, a resident of Vashi.