The colours of india

First, a little confession. I wanted to publish this article on the eve of Holi, but something held me back. As I proofread my initial draft, I wasn’t fully satisfied. It felt like I hadn’t done justice to the spirit of Holi - or to the message I wanted to convey. So, with some effort and reflection, I reshaped it into what I hope is a meaningful read, something that resonates with the essence of our times.

So, here we go.

Holi, the festival of colours, is one of India’s most vibrant and joyous celebrations. It symbolizes unity, diversity, and the spirit of togetherness - values that have long defined our nation. On this day, societal hierarchies fade away - strangers become friends, laughter echoes in the streets, and every face, no matter its background, is painted in a riot of hues. Across villages and cities, people drench each other in hues of red, blue, green, and yellow, blurring lines of caste, creed, and religion. For one day, at least, differences fade, and all that remains is the shared laughter and celebration of life itself.

For a fleeting moment, Holi reminds us of what India truly stands for - diversity, inclusivity, and unity in its most beautiful form. But as the colours wash away, so does this momentary utopia. But what happens when the colours begin to disappear - not just from Holi, but from the soul of the nation?

The Tricolour and Its Message

The Indian flag itself is a testament to diversity. Saffron represents courage and sacrifice, white stands for peace and truth, and green symbolizes faith and prosperity. These colours, together, form the essence of India - a land where multiple religions, cultures, and traditions coexist. The Ashoka Chakra in the middle signifies justice, progress, and righteousness, guiding the nation forward.

Now, imagine if the flag was stripped of all but one colour. Would it still represent India? Would it still uphold the ideals of inclusivity and unity? The answer is obvious - it would be a betrayal of the very principles on which this country was built. That thought itself is anti-social and agianst the constitution of India. Yet, this is exactly what’s happening when the government, instead of upholding the Constitution’s promise of equality, selectively grants freedoms to some while restricting others. When one religion, one ideology, or one way of life is elevated while others are marginalized, it is no less than an attempt to erase the very soul of India.

Holi: A Colourful Reminder of What India Should Be

Holi teaches us that no single colour alone can bring the same joy as when they all mix together. Together, they create beauty. Similarly, a nation that favours one religion, one language, or one ideology while sidelining others is not a democracy but a dictatorship in disguise. A country that respects only one faith, one language, or one cultural identity while suppressing the rest is like a Holi celebration with only one colour - lifeless, monotonous, and deeply unjust.

A true leader, like a true artist, embraces all shades, knowing that beauty lies in diversity. The Constitution of India, much like the festival of Holi, guarantees that every citizen - irrespective of religion, caste, or belief - has the right to exist freely, express openly, and celebrate their traditions without fear. The government’s duty is not to dictate how people should live or worship but to ensure that every citizen enjoys equal rights and freedoms. A true democracy, much like a true Holi celebration, welcomes all shades. A government that rules with fairness and inclusivity ensures that every citizen - Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, or anyone else - feels equally at home.

But what do we see today?

When certain festivals receive full state support while others face restrictions, that’s NOT UNITY.

When policies disproportionately favour one group while others struggle for basic rights, that’s NOT DEMOCRACY.

When dissenting voices are silenced, and questioning authority is branded as anti-national, that’s NOT PATRIOTISM.

The Hypocrisy of Selective Freedom

What’s the point of celebrating Holi if, beyond the colours and festivities, we continue to let divisions dictate our society? What is the meaning of national festivals if only one section of society enjoys complete freedom while others live under scrutiny? When certain religious practices are celebrated and state-sponsored while others are restricted or ridiculed, it reveals a dangerous imbalance.

Festivals like Holi symbolize INCLUSION, not exclusion. Governance should UPLIFT, not divide. Patriotism should encourage free thought, not blind allegiance.

A nation that claims to celebrate Holi but erases the metaphorical colours from its people’s lives is engaging in the worst kind of hypocrisy. Just as every colour adds to the beauty of the festival, every culture, religion, and identity adds to the richness of India.

A Call for True Unity

If Holi teaches us anything, it is that life is meant to be colourful, free, and inclusive. The people of India must not let politics dull the vibrancy of the nation. Just as the colours of Holi belong to everyone, so do the rights enshrined in the Constitution.

India must remain a land where every citizen, regardless of faith, feels at home. Anything less is an insult to the very fabric of this great nation. Let the colours of Holi remind us not just of festivity but of our duty - to stand for unity, to embrace diversity, and to ensure that no force, no government, and no ideology takes away the hues that make India truly incredible.

After all, a nation without its colours is just a blank canvas. And India was never meant to be colourless. Jaihind!