Hyderabad: Online Stores Selling Natural Colours Gain Popularity for Holi
As Holi approaches, markets in Hyderabad are stocked with colourful powders and sprays. However, the usual festive rush is missing. Traders say that many people are now buying natural colours from online stores, as eco-friendly options are becoming more popular.
In areas like Begum Bazar, Chappal Bazar, Gulzar House, Tobacco Bazar, and Pot Market in Secunderabad, the streets are quieter than usual. Normally, these markets would be packed with shoppers before Holi. This year, however, fewer buyers are visiting because most shops only have synthetic colours, while natural colours are harder to find. Meanwhile, online stores selling herbal colours are seeing a rise in sales. Small shops that sell natural colours are also promoting eco-friendly celebrations.
Manufacturers say that demand for eco-friendly and Indian-made colours is increasing. Event organisers are also choosing natural colours over synthetic ones. These colours are made from flowers, fruits, vegetable extracts, turmeric, and rice flour, without artificial chemicals. They cost between Rs 10 per packet and Rs 260 per kilogram. Although they are slightly more expensive than synthetic options, they are safer for the skin.
“This year, more people prefer natural colours over synthetic ones. But since they are expensive, we could only stock a limited quantity, which has slowed down sales,” said Ramesh, a colour trader in Secunderabad.
Suresh, another trader from Begum Bazar, added, “Normally, a week before Holi, customers crowd the shops. But this year, demand is lower.”
An online platform called Holy Waste is also promoting eco-friendly Holi celebrations. A team member shared, “More people are switching to natural colours this year. Increased awareness has encouraged eco-friendly celebrations. Most of our orders come from event management companies. We collect discarded flowers from temples and weddings to make colour powders, adding herbal leaves and seeds. These colours are safe for both people and the environment.”
Arunjyothi Lokhanday, a natural colour maker, also noted the rising popularity of organic colours. “Every year, demand for organic colours grows, but this year it has surged. I have received many orders and use fruit and vegetable extracts to make the colours. Since these are plant-based, they are not only safe for the skin but also good for overall health,” he said.
With more people choosing natural colours, Holi in Hyderabad is becoming more eco-friendly.
