It’s the most colorful time of the year and we surely cannot keep calm because it’s Holi. Be it the crazy Holi parties or Holika Dahan or just splashing colours – there excitement’s galore around Holi. However as cases coronavirus soar many appear to be skeptic over playing Holi this year as well. Last year the first wave of coronavirus took the country by storm with Maharashtra, Kerala and other states topping the list. Many doctors and scientists fear the second wave will hit with a more severe impact. However, the festival happy folks are ready to welcome the Holi, while adhering to guidelines.
The Optimist News spoke to some renowned doctors to learn how to play a safe Holi and what to remember while playing with colours during the corona crisis:
Holi 2021
“It is true that Holi 2021 will be a tad bit different from the rest of the years mostly because of the pandemic. We advise people will to stay cautious while playing since corona is here to stay and all safety measures must be duly considered,” says Dr Priyanka Aggarwal, MD, Dermatology, Cosmetology and Vitiligo surgeon at Re-Incarnation, The Complete Skin Care Clinic, New Town.
“People should maintain physical distance from one another and wear masks and carry sanitizers. Youngsters and adults should avoid Holi parties and rain dance parties and avoid crowded areas. The biggest challenge of this festival is that while playing with colours physical contact will happen which is deadly right now. So people have to remain vigilant at all times and protect themselves. Also, many apartments and housing societies are banning Holi celebrations to reduce the risk of infections, which is a good thing. Playing holi virtually if possible is also a good idea,” adds Dr Aggarwal.
Guidelines for safe Holi
Following social distancing and other norms have become a daily routine in our lives. With the pandemic still in full swing festivals are gathering newer meanings. Dr Abhishek De, Associate Professor, CNMC and Associate Editor, Indian journal of dermatology, advises not to celebrate Holi this year on account of the pandemic as an upsurge is looming. However, Dr De feels that even if celebrations continue, it should be done on a small scale with fewer friends and relatives, on the roof or backyard or within the confines of one’s place. It is best to restrain from unnecessary gatherings.
“Though the state issues guidelines but it finally rests on us what we choose to do. In addition to virus scare, precautions are necessary for other health concerns as well. There are three sets of precautions which one might follow. First, your preparation should start from whom you choose to play Holi with. This is because you may buy the most reliable quality herbal colour but your friend may choose some harsh colour which might damage your skin. It is best if you buy the colors together. You should also limit the total number of colors. Moreover, you should start using sunscreen a few days before Holi. You should also wear full sleeves cotton clothes to minimize damage. Apply ample amounts of moisturizers and a thick coat of sunscreen. Apply virgin coconut oil on your hair. Trim your nails and use good quality nail polish,” shares Dr De.
“At the time of playing Holi, if something gets in your eyes or irritates your skin you need to stop playing immediately and wash your eyes or wash out the area. If you are going to play for long hours apply a fresh coat of sunscreen. Finally, once done, do not scrub hard and use lots of soap if the color does not wash away. Do not worry about it. Rinse your hair using soft shampoo. Finally if there’s any serious side effect please consult a doctor,” he adds.
Folks! Let us celebrate the festival of colours this year by playing safe!
Happy Holi!
